Paul Dillon - Teens, parties, alcohol and vapes: What do parents need to know?

Paul Dillon has been working in the area of drug education for almost 30 years. Through his own business, Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia (DARTA) he is regularly contracted by agencies and organisations across the country to provide updates on current drug trends.

He continues to work with many school communities to ensure they have access to quality information and best practice drug education. An ex-school teacher, Paul has an interest in working with young people, and regularly provides drug information sessions and workshops to students across the country. His best-selling book for parents titled ‘Teenagers, Alcohol and Drugs‘ was published in 2009 and has since been released internationally, being translated into a number of languages.

Discussion Topics

During adolescence, teens develop a biological need to be around friends and it is important to provide them with opportunities to socialise with their peers whenever possible.  Using the most current data available, this presentation will examine the use of alcohol and other drugs by school-based young people.  Simple strategies will be provided to help ensure teens are able to interact with friends on a Saturday night and, at the same time, reduce the risk of underage drinking and the potential dangers associated with such behaviour. 

In addition, up-to-date information will be provided on vaping, particularly in relation to young people.  It aims to empower parents with a positive message and assist them in having open and honest family discussions in this complex area.