(Supporting the 2025 Theme: “Building Bridges: Connecting Young Adults, Families, and Communities”)
In every corner of our communities, families are searching for the right words—the right way—to connect with their teenagers. For parents, teachers, mentors, and neighbors, building trust with young adults is one of the most powerful tools to prevent substance misuse and to support recovery. Yet, so many conversations stall before they even begin. Why? Because communication with teens isn’t just about what we say—it’s about how we listen, how we show up, and how we create spaces where they feel seen, heard, and valued. It’s hard enough under the best circumstances. A hallmark of teen years is a distancing from parental norms and expectations; a desire to establish one’s own priorities and the means to pursue them.
As we continue to embrace our theme of “Building Bridges: Connecting Young Adults, Families, and Communities” trust is the foundation of every bridge we hope to build. And trust begins with communication.
Why Communication Matters
The world teens face today is unlike any generation before them. Social media dominance, academic pressures, mental health challenges, and easy access to unhealthy substances have created a storm of stressors. Many young people feel isolated, not able to meet the expectations they see depicted, whether through peers or marketing messages; this is true even when surrounded by loving family or peers.
Addiction doesn’t happen overnight, nor does recovery. It begins—and heals—within relationships and how they are interpreted. Research consistently shows that strong, trusting connections with adults reduce the risk of substance misuse and support healthier choices. When teens believe the adults in their lives genuinely care, listen without judgment, and respect their autonomy, they are more likely to open up about challenges and seek help when they need it.
But effective communication isn’t instinctive—it’s a skill. Here’s how to build it.
Five Keys to Building Trust Through Communication
- Start with Presence, Not Pressure
Teenagers can sense when adults approach them with an agenda—especially when it comes to sensitive topics like drugs, alcohol, mental health, or behavior. Instead of launching into lectures or interrogations, start by simply being present. Sit beside them while they play video games, offer to grab coffee, or take a walk together. Low-pressure, casual moments often open the door for more meaningful conversations later.
- Listen to Understand, Not to Respond
Many teens stop talking because they’ve learned that adults listen only long enough to correct, lecture, or dismiss their feelings. Building trust means listening deeply—without interrupting, minimizing, or jumping in with advice. When your teen talks, resist the urge to fix or control. Instead, use phrases like:
“Please tell me more about that”
“That sounds really hard—how are you handling it?”
“I’m so glad you shared this with me.”
Validating their feelings—even if you disagree—creates a safe emotional space where future conversations can thrive.
- Be Honest, Even When It’s Hard
Teens value authenticity. If they sense that you’re sugar-coating the truth, hiding your concerns, or offering empty reassurances, trust erodes. While it’s important to be age-appropriate, sharing your genuine thoughts—without dramatizing or scaring them—builds credibility. For example:
Instead of saying, “You’ll never have to deal with peer pressure,” say, “I know you’ll face tough choices, and I trust you’re learning how to navigate them.”
Instead of saying, “You’d never get involved with drugs,” say, “If you ever feel overwhelmed or curious about substances, I hope you’ll come to me first.”
Teens appreciate when adults trust them with real conversations.
- Respect Their Autonomy
Trust requires awareness that teens are developing their own identities, opinions, and choices. While boundaries and guidance are essential, avoid using fear, control, or shame as communication tactics if your initial thoughts about their developing identity are negative.
When you offer information—whether about substances, relationships, or life challenges—frame it as empowering them to make informed decisions that are their own. Invite their perspective:
“What do your friends think about vaping?”
“How do you handle it when someone offers you something you’re not comfortable with?”
Collaborative conversations reinforce their sense of agency, which reduces rebellious behavior.
- Model the Behavior You Want to See
Words matter, but actions matter more. If you want your teen to be open, trustworthy, and respectful, demonstrate those qualities yourself. Share your own challenges (appropriately), admit mistakes, and show humility about your own struggles that have not always been easy to resolve. For example:
“I was so stressed at work today, and I noticed myself shutting down. I’m working on handling that better.”
“I used to think I had all the answers—but I realize I’m still learning too.”
Modeling vulnerability shows teens that growth is lifelong—and that it’s okay not to have everything figured out.
Building trust with young adults isn’t just a family responsibility—it’s a community effort. Coaches, teachers, neighbors, and mentors – they all play vital roles in creating supportive environments where teens can thrive. When young people feel connected not only to their immediate families but to a wider web of caring adults, their risk of isolation – and risky behavior – decreases significantly.
Community conversations matter, too:
Schools can host workshops on mental health and substance education.
Faith groups can offer youth programs focused on resilience.
Local businesses can sponsor mentorship initiatives.
Nonprofits can provide safe spaces for open dialogue.
Every positive interaction with a caring adult adds another layer of protection around a young person. Collectively, we can create communities where trust is the norm and not the exception.
If communication with your teen feels strained, awkward, or nonexistent, don’t lose hope. Building trust takes time and every small effort counts. Even a brief, authentic conversation plants seeds for future openness.
Building bridges starts with a single conversation.
Together, through honest, compassionate communication, we can strengthen families, empower young adults, and weave tighter connections across our communities, resulting in healthier, contributing adults who benefit us all.
Final Thoughts: It’s Never Too Late to Start the Conversation
If you or someone you know is concerned about a young adult and substance use, Gregg’s Gift is here to help. Let’s keep building those bridges—one conversation at a time.