The Hidden Impact of Substance Use on Children and Young People

In this episode of Breaking the Stigma, we explore the often unseen impact that substance use can have on children and young people.Hosted by Barbara Zaman from the ADP Support Team, this episode features Chloe Dudgeon from Dumfries and Galloway Council Youth Work Service and the Dumfries and Galloway Young Women’s Network. Together, they discuss the powerful new film Behind Closed Doors, created with young people across Dumfries and Galloway to highlight the emotional and psychological impact of parental and family substance use.The conversation explores trauma, stigma, poverty, violence against women and girls, early exposure to substances, and the importance of creating safe, trusted spaces where young people feel able to talk openly and access support.Chloe also shares insight into current trends affecting young people, including increasing cannabis use, experimentation with substances at a younger age, and the importance of harm reduction, partnership working and trauma-informed support.This episode is an important reminder that substance use does not only affect individuals. It impacts families, relationships, childhoods and futures.Because sometimes the experiences children carry are the ones adults never fully see.For more information and support, visit dgadp.co.ukProduced by Your Fairy Podmother®️www.fairypodmother.co.uk