A-Levels results: PHA issues advice for parents and guardians on talking to teens about drugs and alcohol

This year’s results reflect the completion of the return to pre-pandemic arrangements and are similar to those awarded to students in 2019, according to the Joint Council for Qualifications.

The provisional figures show that 30.3 percent of NI students received a grade A or above, in line with 29.4 percent in 2019.

With the PHA noting a rise in “excessive drinking or drug taking” around exam results time, the agency is encouraging parents and guardians to talk to teens about the associated risks. Kevin Bailey, PHA Regional Lead for Drugs and Alcohol commented: “Parents and guardians can make the first move and talk honestly and openly about the dangers of binge drinking and encourage young people to have fun with friends without alcohol or drugs.

“If you are talking to someone who is of the legal drinking age, encourage them to take care if they choose to drink. Staying within the safer drinking limits is important, as excessive drinking can have lasting effects on health. Warn them of the dangers of mixing alcohol and other drugs.

“Parents’ and other family members’ attitudes in relation to alcohol and drugs have a strong influence on young people, so take that step to talk about it openly.”

The PHA has shared some helpful tips for parents/guardians, including:

Do

- Make the first move and bring up the topic of alcohol. Don’t wait until there’s a problem before you decide to talk;

- Take time to listen to what young people have to say;

- Respect their views if you want the same in return;

- Discuss the risks associated with drinking alcohol;

- Discuss possible consequences of their actions and support them to make the right choices;

- Think about your own drinking and the influence this can have on young people’s' behaviour.

Don’t

- Assume young people don’t want to talk. Not talking to them about alcohol could be interpreted as your approval of them drinking;

- Assume they already know everything;

- Interrupt or be judgemental, even if you don’t agree with their opinion.

Kevin continued: “Misusing drugs can also cause serious damage to your health and even death. You can never be sure what has gone into the drugs, therefore the PHA strongly recommends that you do not take them.

“If someone has taken drugs and is feeling unwell, seek medical help urgently. Young people will be worried about getting in to trouble if they are with someone who is ill after taking drugs but remind them they need to look out for their friends, stay with them and get them help.”

Results time can also have an impact on young people’s emotional wellbeing.

Information on looking after mental health and the support available in NI can be found at www.MindingYourHead.info

Meanwhile, Education Minister Paul Givan has congratulated young people receiving their examination results. “They have all worked incredibly hard and this has been reflected in the grades they have achieved,” he said. “Our pupils have again performed impressively, and I wish them well as they move on to their next stage of education, employment or training.”