Drug and Alcohol Awareness

In 2003, nearly nine out of 10 American twelfth graders reported marijuana as being accessible. By the time they finished the eighth grade, approximately 50 percent of adolescents have had at least one drink, and more than 20 percent report having been "drunk." Drug and alcohol use by teens increases the risk of addiction and can change the developing brain for life.

Despite all your efforts to keep your kids drug-free, one day your might suspect that your son or daughter is using drugs or alcohol. Perhaps you have round drugs or just overheard a conversation not meant for you. Whatever the signal, your gut instinct has been activated. What do you do now?

Some things to look for

Increased secrecy about possessions or activities
Subtle changes in conversations with friends including secretive or coded language
Bottles of eye drops, which may be used to mask bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils
New use of mouthwash or breath mints to cover up the smell of alcohol
Missing prescription drugs - especially narcotics and mood stabilizers

Resources for Drug and Alcohol Abuse

Personal Counseling
The school counselors are available to assist students with a wide range or personal concerns, including such areas as social, family, or emotional issues, or substance abuse. The counselor may also make available information about community resources to address these concerns. A student who wishes to meet with the counselors should call their campus to make an appointment.

For Parents
    www.TheAntiDrug.com offers resources, information and facts for parents
    www.laantidroga.com (en espanol)
   www.family.samhsa.gov is a resource for parents to promote mental health and prevent the use of alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs.
    A treatment locator can be found at http://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/facilitylocatordoc.htm or you can call 1-800-662-HELP.

For Teens
    www.freevibe.com offers information, fact sheets games and posters for teens with a section on early intervention
    www.checkyourself.org offers resources, information, quizzes and videos for teen to question themselves about their drug use