THUNDER BAY – Family Life – Parenting teens can be challenging—and when it comes to talking about smoking, cannabis, and alcohol, the stakes are high. According to the latest data from the Northwestern Health Unit (NWHU), many teenagers in our region are making choices that can have serious impacts on their health now and into adulthood.
The 2024/25 COMPASS Study, conducted in partnership with local high schools, revealed that:
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16% of students smoked cigarettes in the last 30 days
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27% used e-cigarettes (vapes)
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22% reported binge drinking alcohol in the past month
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22% had used cannabis in that same period
These numbers are higher than the provincial average and show a troubling trend: as students get older, risky behaviours increase. The good news? Parents still have a powerful role to play in influencing the decisions their teens make.
Why Teens in Northwestern Ontario Are at Risk
The North has many strengths—tight-knit communities, access to nature, and cultural traditions. But it also faces unique challenges, such as limited access to mental health services, peer pressure in small towns, and increased exposure to substance use at a younger age.
Teens today are dealing with stress, social pressure, and sometimes misinformation. Many see vaping, cannabis use, and alcohol as “normal” or even harmless. That’s why it’s more important than ever for parents and caregivers to have open, honest conversations—without judgment or scare tactics.
The Risks: What Every Parent Should Know
Tobacco and Vaping
Despite the decline in traditional cigarette use, vaping has exploded in popularity among teens. But just because it smells like fruit doesn’t mean it’s safe.
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Vaping can lead to nicotine addiction, lung damage, and increased risk of smoking cigarettes later
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Some vapes contain dangerous chemicals like formaldehyde or heavy metals
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Studies show teens who vape are more likely to use other substances in the future
Cannabis
While cannabis is legal for adults, it’s not risk-free—especially for developing teen brains.
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Regular use in adolescence is linked to memory problems, mental health issues, and lower academic achievement
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Cannabis can impair judgment and increase the risk of accidents, especially when driving or using machinery
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Heavy use may trigger anxiety or psychosis in some individuals
Alcohol and Binge Drinking
Binge drinking (defined as consuming 5+ drinks on one occasion) remains a major concern.
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It increases the risk of accidents, injuries, and risky sexual behaviour
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Alcohol can disrupt brain development, especially in areas linked to decision-making
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Drinking heavily as a teen increases the likelihood of alcohol dependency in adulthood
How to Talk to Your Teen Without Losing Them
Teens may act like they’re not listening—but they are. The way you approach the topic matters just as much as the message.
Here are five practical tips for meaningful conversations:
1. Start Early—and Keep Talking
Don’t wait for a crisis. Begin conversations in the early teen years and revisit the topic regularly. Keep the door open.
2. Ask, Don’t Lecture
Try: “What have you heard about vaping at school?” or “How do you feel about how much teens drink these days?”
Let them share their perspective—without interrupting.
3. Share Facts, Not Fear
Teens are smart. Share up-to-date info on how substances affect their brain, body, and goals. Talk about how addiction works. Use credible sources like NWHU or Health Canada.
4. Be Real About Peer Pressure
Acknowledge that saying “no” isn’t always easy. Talk about strategies like using humour, blame (“my parents would kill me”), or having a go-to excuse.
5. Lead by Example
Your own relationship with alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis sends a message. Be honest if you’ve made mistakes, and focus on what you’ve learned. Teens are quick to judge. If you are tying one on every weekend while you tell them how they should not do that like you, your message will be ignored.
Resources for Parents
You’re not alone in this. There are many organizations and tools designed to help families have productive, age-appropriate conversations about substance use.
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Northwestern Health Unit – nwhu.on.ca
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Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) – camh.ca
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Drug-Free Kids Canada – drugfreekidscanada.org
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Kids Help Phone (for teens) – kidshelpphone.ca
Final Word: Stay Connected
More than any lecture or rule, your relationship with your teen is your most powerful tool. Check in often. Be available. Celebrate their strengths. And when mistakes happen—and they will—respond with love and support, not punishment.
Every conversation matters. And your voice could be the one that helps them make a healthier choice when it counts.
