Alcohol, Tobacco, Cannabis and other drugs

Youth is a time of getting to know yourself and trying to fit in with others. Your youth may face peer pressure to use alcohol, tobacco, or other substances (drugs). It is normal for your youth to be curious about these substances (drugs). There is a fear of the unknown, but a curiosity about things that are "off-limits."

This section will help you to know more about common substances (drugs), their risks, the law, and what you can do as a parent.

For more information on other substances (drugs), check out the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health: Mental Health and Addiction Information A to Z.  

Do you have more questions about parenting?

  • Connect with a registered nurse from Health811 for free, secure, and confidential health advice. Service is available 24/7 in English and French, with translation support also offered in other languages. Call 8-1-1 or visit Health811.ontario.ca.
  • Connect with a Community Navigator from 2-1-1 for information about community programs and resources across Eastern Ontario. Helpline service is available 24/7 and in many different languages. Call 2-1-1 or visit 211ontario.ca.
  • Connect with other parents on the Parenting in Ottawa Facebook page.
  • There are a variety of services to make it easier for your child to grow up healthy in Ottawa.
  • You can update your child's immunization record using either the Immunization Connect Ontario (ICON) Tool or the CANImmunize App. 
  • If you have received a message from Ottawa Public Health such as a letter or a call regarding immunization, an infectious disease, or infection control lapse, please call 613-580-6744 and listen to the menu options carefully.

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