Mental health expert to parents: Never too early to talk about dangers of drugs

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH)-A mental health expert says it’s never too early to start this conversation about the deadly consequences of fake fentanyl-laced pills.

For three years, Chris McKinney, a behavioral health liaison at Maize High School, has been listening to the struggles of Maize High School students.

McKinney says, “Students love to talk, and if you ask them questions and give them space, and they feel like they’re in a safe place to do it, they’ll talk.”

McKinney surveyed 20 students about how easily they could get drugs on their phones. Only three did not have easy access.

“That number was shocking to us. We were very appreciative of his honesty, but that tells you how available this substance is to people,” McKinney said.

Encourage parents to have an engaging conversation about the dangers of drugs. This trained social worker says that he starts with building a relationship.

McKinney says, “Your initial conversation shouldn’t just be about drugs. It should be more about what your day is like. What do you have planned with your friends?

He says he can take the conversation to the next level when the conversation progresses and his teen opens up. The teens tell Mckinney that his biggest concern is fear of consequences.

“When we say listen nonjudgmentally, that comes down to asking the question and not jumping to the next question right away, but letting them talk about it and being open to what they discuss,” says McKinney. “We’re not trying to tell parents how to be parents. We’re just trying to help you improve that relationship with your child. and that’s all about awareness and safety.”

It reminds parents and teens that the consequences of a fentanyl pill can be deadly and encourages parents to create a safe place for their teens to talk openly.

He says parents need to respect their privacy while also building a trusting relationship so their teen can come to you, and as a reminder, self-medication can be a cry for help. McKinney says to contact your student’s school.

Many have counselors, mental health liaisons, and school resource officers who can also help.

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