Recover Your Family - Teenagers

Recover Your Family: A Guide for Talking to Your Teen About Your History of Substance Use

Having an honest conversation with your teenager about your history of substance use can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. This downloadable guide gives you the tools, language, and confidence to approach this sensitive subject in a way that builds trust, fosters open communication, and strengthens your relationship.

Inside, you’ll find:

• Step-by-step guidance on how to prepare for the conversation

• Do’s and don’ts to avoid common pitfalls

• Sample scripts for answering tough questions

• Reflection prompts to clarify what you want to share

• Worksheets to help you draft your story and engage your teen

• A family agreement activity to set healthy boundaries together

• A resource list with trusted organizations and teen-friendly supports

This guide helps you share your story in a way that emphasizes resilience, honesty, and growth—while creating space for your teen to feel heard and supported.

Format: Digital download (PDF)
Perfect for: Parents in recovery, families healing together, and caregivers who want to have age-appropriate, open, and supportive conversations with their teens.