It’s every parent’s nightmare facing teen drug addiction. As children enter their teenage years they begin to separate from their parents, explore the adult world and fashion an image of their place in it.
Even the most conscientious parents may not be able to protect their teens from the predatory lure of drugs, readily available in or around all schools.
Borrowing a sports analogy, the best defense against teenage drug use is a good offense.
Parents need to equip themselves with solid information about teen drug addiction , a realistic view of their child and access to professional help if there are any early warning signs of drug use and find a good drug rehab.
Warning Signs of Teen Drug Addiction:
School: Is your child keeping up with his/her school work? Have they lost interest in going to school and look for excuses to stay home? Call the school and keep track of your child’s attendance in class. I coach football and basketball for middle school and high school. I get attendance records and if a teen has missed class, they don’t play in the games.
But do you know your child skipped second period math class?
Are there days when you think your child has gone to school, but the attendance records do not match up?
Children who are in trouble with drugs will often begin failing classes, not turning in homework assignments or in general just fall behind. “I can’t believe Johnny is failing math, it was always his favorite subject.” A new pattern has emerged and it isn’t pretty. Schools have open campuses, allowing kids to come and go. They can easily slip into the community and get into trouble.
Health: As a person slips into teen drug addiction a variety of physical signs point to drug abuse. Are they listless all of the time? Kids don’t want to get up in the morning anyway, but they don’t always refuse to get moving. Weight loss and weight gain are signs. Are there changes in eating habits? The eyes are an indicator. Has the life gone out of their eyes, or is there a major change?
Appearance: This can be a difficult area to discern, as fashions change and often times what adults feel is acceptable dress may not have anything to do with current trends. Watch for changes in dress.
Does a child lose interest in how they look? Kids want to fit in and there is peer pressure influence on the way they dress. Girls, especially, are bombarded with images on appearance. Has there been an attitude shift? Have grooming habits changed?
Attitude and Behavior: As children enter their teen years it is natural for them to want to break away from the family. When kids go to extremes to make sure you don’t know who they’re with or what they are doing, the red flag should go up. When they become secretive and guarded, when their privacy at home prevents your open access to them, look for something beyond mere adolescent rebellion.
Money can be a sign. If their only interaction with the parents is to ask for money, and when asked why they need money they refuse to answer, or become indignant, that is an indicator of possible drug abuse. Worse yet, they may steal items from home to buy drugs.
Communication is Essential
Communicating with teens can be a challenge, especially because they are beginning to spread their wings and desire independence from mom and dad. Stay calm.
The most common mistake parents can make is trying to force ideas and values on the defiant teenaged mind.
I was that way. There's a leadership responsibility that always needs to be in evidence, and parents need to be parents. Trying to be “best buddies” is not a good strategy. However, parents need to meet their children where they are at. That means trying to understand the situation from your child’s perspective.
Teenagers will probably come up with some very wrong reasoning, seriously flawed ideas and their whole world view will likely be counter to that of their parents. But they have a NEED to be heard and respected.
It’s one thing to accept an opinion counter to your own, and it’s quite another to approve of it. Try working with your teen’s ideas and concepts, and have an open and non-threatening discussion about them. You can establish rules of engagement with your teen and agree that both of you are allowed to express ideas and opinions without fear of retribution.
The key is to remember that the parent needs to be the one in control. As a chaplain, I do a lot of counseling work and my approach is entirely patient-centered. They establish the themes of the conversation, but even though I am not deciding the topic, or necessarily directing the conversation, I am still in control.
Remember that your teenager, like a patient in a hospital, is probably going to be very myopic. He/she will see things only from their perspective.
Take a step back and see the entire situation. Go with their feelings, their concerns and walk down their path. Share the experience.
Parents are the front line of the fight against teen drug addiction. Don’t push that responsibility off to the schools. Rather, partner with the school counselors, teachers and administrators, never forgetting that you are the one responsible for your teen. If drug abuse or addiction enters your home, seek professional help and form another partnership in the effort.
Be in control. Be honest. Be alert. Be proactive.
Have you ever wondered WHY your teens are more susceptible to drug abuse and addiction? Teenage drug abuse is common; read why...
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Are You Enabling Your Child's Drug Use?
You’re not helping your child if you make excuses when you know your child misses school or family functions because of “not feeling well,” especially when you suspect something else is at play. Take the next step: Get more information and talk to your child.
When do you take action? Sooner rather than later is always the best. You can immediately begin to more closely monitor your child’s activities. Have a few conversations. Ask why he/she is using drugs. Get to know your kid’s friends and their parents. When you get a better idea of the situation, then you can decide what the next steps should be. These could include setting new rules and consequences that are reasonable and enforceable — such as a new, earlier curfew, no cell phone or computer privileges for a period of time, or less time hanging out with friends. You may want to get them involved in new or other activities that will keep them busy and help them meet new people. For more information about how to address your teen’s alcohol and drug use and how to set and enforce rules, see our resource list at the end of this page.
Have Uncovered A Problem?
The most important thing you can do is to not deny its existence. If you don’t think you can handle it yourself, ask for help. You are not alone. Many parents have been in your shoes. Find them for support and insight. Contact someone at your child’s school. Remember, school staff can be your best ally. While it may be difficult to get past the feelings of embarrassment and failure, the truth is asking for help is the best thing you can do for your child, yourself and your family. The most important thing is for you to take action on your child’s behalf — help him/her stop using drugs and alcohol. Look to your community for resources to help you. Also, there are many prevention and treatment specialists who can guide and inform you:
• School counselors and student assistance professionals
• Employee assistance professionals
• Family doctors or pediatricians
• Nurses
• Faith leaders
• Community health centers
• Adolescent prevention or treatment professionals
• Local community anti-drug coalitions
Ask your child if there is someone they trust or feel comfortable talking to. They shouldn’t necessarily make the final decision, but they are more likely to be an active participant if they have a say in what happens.
Take your child to the doctor or talk to the school nurse and ask him or her about screening your child for drugs and alcohol. This may involve the health professional asking your child a simple question, or it may involve a urine or blood drug screen. Drug testing of kids is a complicated issue and is best done within the context of a doctor-patient-parent relationship. Sharing your concerns with your health professional can help you get the advice and assistance you need. If you have an appointment with your child’s doctor, call ahead to make time to discuss this issue.
It may also help to talk to other parents who have experienced what you are going through. You may feel as though you are the only family dealing with this issue, but know that there are parent support groups in your community.
Parents Are The Most Important Influence In a Child’s Life
Research shows that parents are central to preventing teen drug use. In fact, kids them¬selves say that losing their Influence in a parents’ trust and respect are the most important reasons not to use drugs. As a parent, your actions matter. When you suspect, or know, that your child has been drinking or using drugs, take action to stop it as soon as you can. It may be the most important step you ever take.
When do you take action? Sooner rather than later is always the best. You can immediately begin to more closely monitor your child’s activities. Have a few conversations. Ask why he/she is using drugs. Get to know your kid’s friends and their parents. When you get a better idea of the situation, then you can decide what the next steps should be. These could include setting new rules and consequences that are reasonable and enforceable — such as a new, earlier curfew, no cell phone or computer privileges for a period of time, or less time hanging out with friends. You may want to get them involved in new or other activities that will keep them busy and help them meet new people. For more information about how to address your teen’s alcohol and drug use and how to set and enforce rules, see our resource list at the end of this page.
Have Uncovered A Problem?
The most important thing you can do is to not deny its existence. If you don’t think you can handle it yourself, ask for help. You are not alone. Many parents have been in your shoes. Find them for support and insight. Contact someone at your child’s school. Remember, school staff can be your best ally. While it may be difficult to get past the feelings of embarrassment and failure, the truth is asking for help is the best thing you can do for your child, yourself and your family. The most important thing is for you to take action on your child’s behalf — help him/her stop using drugs and alcohol. Look to your community for resources to help you. Also, there are many prevention and treatment specialists who can guide and inform you:
• School counselors and student assistance professionals
• Employee assistance professionals
• Family doctors or pediatricians
• Nurses
• Faith leaders
• Community health centers
• Adolescent prevention or treatment professionals
• Local community anti-drug coalitions
Ask your child if there is someone they trust or feel comfortable talking to. They shouldn’t necessarily make the final decision, but they are more likely to be an active participant if they have a say in what happens.
Take your child to the doctor or talk to the school nurse and ask him or her about screening your child for drugs and alcohol. This may involve the health professional asking your child a simple question, or it may involve a urine or blood drug screen. Drug testing of kids is a complicated issue and is best done within the context of a doctor-patient-parent relationship. Sharing your concerns with your health professional can help you get the advice and assistance you need. If you have an appointment with your child’s doctor, call ahead to make time to discuss this issue.
It may also help to talk to other parents who have experienced what you are going through. You may feel as though you are the only family dealing with this issue, but know that there are parent support groups in your community.
Parents Are The Most Important Influence In a Child’s Life
Research shows that parents are central to preventing teen drug use. In fact, kids them¬selves say that losing their Influence in a parents’ trust and respect are the most important reasons not to use drugs. As a parent, your actions matter. When you suspect, or know, that your child has been drinking or using drugs, take action to stop it as soon as you can. It may be the most important step you ever take.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Have The "Marijuana Discussion" With Your Pre-Teen
Your 10-year-old tells you a friend offered him some marijuana (or other substance). You can begin your conversation by asking for more information.
Q: “What do you know about marijuana (or other substance)?”
A: [Chances are your child will have some information on marijuana (or other substance), but not all of the information may be accurate. If your child doesn’t know about the harms of marijuana (or other substance), you can do the following things together to find out more:]
Ask more questions to continue the conversation.
Q: “Do you know what happens if you use marijuana (or other substances)?”
A: [Listen to your child’s response. Does he mention any of the consequences listed below? If not, you should mention them. We have used marijuana as the example here.]
• Smoking marijuana is illegal and could result in getting suspended or kicked out of school, being sent to jail or juvenile detention, and having a criminal record. All of these things could affect the rest of his life.
• Smoking marijuana sets a bad example for younger siblings.
• Smoking marijuana will hurt his lungs and cause him to perform poorly in sports.
• Smoking marijuana will hurt his brain and could result in memory loss, bad grades, and a loss of motivation.
• Smoking marijuana would affect his relationship with you and others he cares about.
• Smoking marijuana would affect the whole family greatly. State what the resulting consequences would be in your family.
For more discussion starters, or to get more information about teen drug use, see Parent drug resource
Communication Is Important Because… Some Kids Use Drugs To Satisfy Curiosity. Children are very curious about alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs. They are exposed to drug messages on TV, in the movies and videos, in newspapers and magazines, at school, on the Internet, and in conversations with friends and family. Even if we have done an outstanding job of educating and nurturing the children in our care, some children will remain curious about alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs. Their sources of drug information may not always be accurate or have their best interests at heart. But you do. That’s why it’s important for you to know about the drugs your child may be exposed to and for you to communicate the consequences associated with them. Let your kids know that you will drug test them at home. This is a huge deterrent and your kids have a way out with their friend, “No way. My parents drug test me!”
There Is A Difference Between Boys and Girls
There’s no denying that boys and girls are different. Differences between the sexes become more obvious with the onset of puberty. So do boys’ and girls’ needs when it comes to resisting alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drug use. Boys and girls experience adolescence differently because of various social, cultural, physiological, and psychological challenges. For example, among boys, puberty tends to increase aggressive behavior, while among girls puberty tends to bring a higher incidence of depression.
Studies show that girls may lose self-confidence and self-worth during this pivotal time, become less physically active, perform less well in school, and neglect their own interests and aspirations. During these years, girls are more vulnerable to negative outside influences and to mixed messages about risky behaviors. Girls are also at higher risk than boys for sexual abuse, which has been associated with substance abuse.
Puberty generally occurs a year or two later in boys than it does in girls. The physical changes boys go through can cause a lack of coordination that may lead to injury. Boys tend to experience mood swings and can have feelings of anxiety during puberty. During these years, boys crave exploration of things associated with being grown up, including sexual behavior or experimentation with alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs. But boys and girls also have a lot in common. They need the same kinds of guidance, information, and nurture from their parents to help them grow into healthy, well-informed adolescents and adults. Both boys and girls are less likely to smoke, drink, or use illegal drugs if they have:
• A positive attitude, an ability to adapt to changing circumstances, and a belief in their ability to “handle things.”
• A warm, close-knit family and parental supervision with consistent discipline.
• Close friends, an extended family that provides support, community resources, and family and community attitudes that do not tolerate substance abuse.
Resources for parents:
• Home Drug Test – Drug test kits and supplies that are easy to use and inexpensive found at: http://www.uatests.com/types-of-drug-tests/home-drug-test.html
• Parent’s Drug Resource – Complete drug resource information about drugs, drug use, signs and symptoms, etc. found at: http://www.uatests.com/drug-testing-information/parent-drug-resource.html
Q: “What do you know about marijuana (or other substance)?”
A: [Chances are your child will have some information on marijuana (or other substance), but not all of the information may be accurate. If your child doesn’t know about the harms of marijuana (or other substance), you can do the following things together to find out more:]
Ask more questions to continue the conversation.
Q: “Do you know what happens if you use marijuana (or other substances)?”
A: [Listen to your child’s response. Does he mention any of the consequences listed below? If not, you should mention them. We have used marijuana as the example here.]
• Smoking marijuana is illegal and could result in getting suspended or kicked out of school, being sent to jail or juvenile detention, and having a criminal record. All of these things could affect the rest of his life.
• Smoking marijuana sets a bad example for younger siblings.
• Smoking marijuana will hurt his lungs and cause him to perform poorly in sports.
• Smoking marijuana will hurt his brain and could result in memory loss, bad grades, and a loss of motivation.
• Smoking marijuana would affect his relationship with you and others he cares about.
• Smoking marijuana would affect the whole family greatly. State what the resulting consequences would be in your family.
For more discussion starters, or to get more information about teen drug use, see Parent drug resource
Communication Is Important Because… Some Kids Use Drugs To Satisfy Curiosity. Children are very curious about alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs. They are exposed to drug messages on TV, in the movies and videos, in newspapers and magazines, at school, on the Internet, and in conversations with friends and family. Even if we have done an outstanding job of educating and nurturing the children in our care, some children will remain curious about alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs. Their sources of drug information may not always be accurate or have their best interests at heart. But you do. That’s why it’s important for you to know about the drugs your child may be exposed to and for you to communicate the consequences associated with them. Let your kids know that you will drug test them at home. This is a huge deterrent and your kids have a way out with their friend, “No way. My parents drug test me!”
There Is A Difference Between Boys and Girls
There’s no denying that boys and girls are different. Differences between the sexes become more obvious with the onset of puberty. So do boys’ and girls’ needs when it comes to resisting alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drug use. Boys and girls experience adolescence differently because of various social, cultural, physiological, and psychological challenges. For example, among boys, puberty tends to increase aggressive behavior, while among girls puberty tends to bring a higher incidence of depression.
Studies show that girls may lose self-confidence and self-worth during this pivotal time, become less physically active, perform less well in school, and neglect their own interests and aspirations. During these years, girls are more vulnerable to negative outside influences and to mixed messages about risky behaviors. Girls are also at higher risk than boys for sexual abuse, which has been associated with substance abuse.
Puberty generally occurs a year or two later in boys than it does in girls. The physical changes boys go through can cause a lack of coordination that may lead to injury. Boys tend to experience mood swings and can have feelings of anxiety during puberty. During these years, boys crave exploration of things associated with being grown up, including sexual behavior or experimentation with alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs. But boys and girls also have a lot in common. They need the same kinds of guidance, information, and nurture from their parents to help them grow into healthy, well-informed adolescents and adults. Both boys and girls are less likely to smoke, drink, or use illegal drugs if they have:
• A positive attitude, an ability to adapt to changing circumstances, and a belief in their ability to “handle things.”
• A warm, close-knit family and parental supervision with consistent discipline.
• Close friends, an extended family that provides support, community resources, and family and community attitudes that do not tolerate substance abuse.
Resources for parents:
• Home Drug Test – Drug test kits and supplies that are easy to use and inexpensive found at: http://www.uatests.com/types-of-drug-tests/home-drug-test.html
• Parent’s Drug Resource – Complete drug resource information about drugs, drug use, signs and symptoms, etc. found at: http://www.uatests.com/drug-testing-information/parent-drug-resource.html
How To Talk To Your Kids About Drugs
First, set aside a few minutes a day. Talk about problems or challenges that might have come up during the day and discuss how you handled them. You can ask your child for his ideas on simple matters to help him build problem-solving skills. These skills can help him resist peer pressure to use alcohol and drugs to solve problems.
Decision making skills are important
Children learn how to make decisions. You can guide them with a key set of questions to ask when faced with a choice:
• What am I trying to decide and what do I know about it?
• How do I know my information is accurate? Who gave me the information?
• What more do I need to know before going ahead?
• Who has the added information I need?
Once the decision is made, ask these questions:
• What are the good effects of this decision?
• What are the bad effects?
After this, you can ask your child to reconsider a decision and take responsibility for the consequences.
Second, validate your child’s feelings. Sometimes, children react to situations in ways we think are inappropriate, silly, or overdramatic. That’s because children don’t have the benefit of our adult experience. What is minor to us may be very important to them. For example, if your child says, “Mrs. Smith doesn’t like me. She gives me too much homework,” don’t dismiss your child by saying, “That’s ridiculous. Everyone gets the same amount of homework.” Instead, validate your child’s feelings, investigate the situation, and guide her toward a better understanding of the situation. “Oh, I wouldn’t like it if I felt my teacher didn’t like me. But does everybody get the same homework assignment?” If you’re not sure you have all the facts regarding a situation, assure your child you will take action, such as talking to Mrs. Smith. This lets your child know that you respect her feelings and are willing to help her work through difficult situations.
Read more at Parent drug resource
How To Talk To Your Kids About Drugs – Part Two
Practice active listening. When you show interest in what your child has to say, he or she will open up. One technique to show you’re listening and understanding is to paraphrase what your child tells you. Try doing this the next time you have a conversation. For example, your child says, “I like playing soccer, but practice is the same time as my favorite show on TV.” You might say, “Wow, that’s a tough choice. On one hand, you really like playing soccer; on the other hand, you don’t want to miss your favorite show.”
Ask questions. Children have a lot to share when they think their opinions matter. Ask for your child’s input about family decisions. These decisions may range from what to have for dinner to where to go for a family outing. Showing your interest in her opinion will make your child feel more comfortable about opening up to you.
If you are successful in establishing open lines of communication with your child about day-to-day events, he or she will be more likely to seek your input on more serious issues as well. Many of the skills you use in daily conversations may prove useful when discussing tougher issues.
How To Talk To Your Kids About Drugs – Part Three
Express thoughts and feelings. Being able to express thoughts and feelings with someone we feel comfortable around—whether it is a spouse, a coworker, or a friend—can make all the difference in how we feel about ourselves and in how we interact with the world around us.
Similarly, young people need opportunities to express their thoughts and new feelings. When we try to limit the thoughts and feelings of our children, we take a great deal away from them. When we deny that their feelings are real, we are denying that children are individuals with their own perceptions. Young people who are taught to express themselves have an easier time dealing with peer pressure and resisting other temptations.
Resources for parents:
• Parent’s Drug Resource - http://www.uatests.com/drug-testing-information/parent-drug-resource.html
• Home Drug Test Kits - http://www.uatests.com/types-of-drug-tests/home-drug-test.html
Decision making skills are important
Children learn how to make decisions. You can guide them with a key set of questions to ask when faced with a choice:
• What am I trying to decide and what do I know about it?
• How do I know my information is accurate? Who gave me the information?
• What more do I need to know before going ahead?
• Who has the added information I need?
Once the decision is made, ask these questions:
• What are the good effects of this decision?
• What are the bad effects?
After this, you can ask your child to reconsider a decision and take responsibility for the consequences.
Second, validate your child’s feelings. Sometimes, children react to situations in ways we think are inappropriate, silly, or overdramatic. That’s because children don’t have the benefit of our adult experience. What is minor to us may be very important to them. For example, if your child says, “Mrs. Smith doesn’t like me. She gives me too much homework,” don’t dismiss your child by saying, “That’s ridiculous. Everyone gets the same amount of homework.” Instead, validate your child’s feelings, investigate the situation, and guide her toward a better understanding of the situation. “Oh, I wouldn’t like it if I felt my teacher didn’t like me. But does everybody get the same homework assignment?” If you’re not sure you have all the facts regarding a situation, assure your child you will take action, such as talking to Mrs. Smith. This lets your child know that you respect her feelings and are willing to help her work through difficult situations.
Read more at Parent drug resource
How To Talk To Your Kids About Drugs – Part Two
Practice active listening. When you show interest in what your child has to say, he or she will open up. One technique to show you’re listening and understanding is to paraphrase what your child tells you. Try doing this the next time you have a conversation. For example, your child says, “I like playing soccer, but practice is the same time as my favorite show on TV.” You might say, “Wow, that’s a tough choice. On one hand, you really like playing soccer; on the other hand, you don’t want to miss your favorite show.”
Ask questions. Children have a lot to share when they think their opinions matter. Ask for your child’s input about family decisions. These decisions may range from what to have for dinner to where to go for a family outing. Showing your interest in her opinion will make your child feel more comfortable about opening up to you.
If you are successful in establishing open lines of communication with your child about day-to-day events, he or she will be more likely to seek your input on more serious issues as well. Many of the skills you use in daily conversations may prove useful when discussing tougher issues.
How To Talk To Your Kids About Drugs – Part Three
Express thoughts and feelings. Being able to express thoughts and feelings with someone we feel comfortable around—whether it is a spouse, a coworker, or a friend—can make all the difference in how we feel about ourselves and in how we interact with the world around us.
Similarly, young people need opportunities to express their thoughts and new feelings. When we try to limit the thoughts and feelings of our children, we take a great deal away from them. When we deny that their feelings are real, we are denying that children are individuals with their own perceptions. Young people who are taught to express themselves have an easier time dealing with peer pressure and resisting other temptations.
Resources for parents:
• Parent’s Drug Resource - http://www.uatests.com/drug-testing-information/parent-drug-resource.html
• Home Drug Test Kits - http://www.uatests.com/types-of-drug-tests/home-drug-test.html
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Parents: Talk To Your Child About Drugs
If you could do one thing that would help your child succeed in school, live a healthier life, and develop to his or her fullest potential, would you do it?
If you answered “yes,” then talk with your child about alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs. Find out what he or she knows. Explain to her that using these substances can interfere with studying and can cause grades to suffer by affecting memory and learning skills. Describe the harmful health effects of these substances. Let him know how these substances can cause problems in relationships and among friends and can tear families apart. Study after study has found that parents make a difference in the choices their children make. For more information on advice for parents, see Parent Drug Resource. Parents, please know that you make a difference!
By the time they enter preschool, most children have seen adults smoking cigarettes or drinking alcohol either in real life or in the media, or both. Children today are exposed to illegal drugs as early as elementary school, so it’s never too early to talk with your child about drugs.
Do You Want Your Kid To Be Drug Free?
If you want to help keep your kids drug free, you are the key! Here are seven action steps you can take to help keep your kids off of drugs:
1. Establish and maintain good communication with your child.
2. Get involved in your child’s life.
3. Make clear rules and enforce them with consistency and appropriate consequences.
4. Be a positive role model.
5. Teach your child to choose friends wisely.
6. Monitor your child’s activities.
7. Drug test your kids.
Focus on these seven key things and you will go a long way to help your child grow up drug free.
Drugs Are Everywhere
Drug use among teens cuts across all ethnic, geographic, and socioeconomic lines. Youth, especially teens, experience pressure to use alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs at increasingly early ages. In fact, in one survey, adolescents ages 12 to 17 named drugs (along with social and academic pressures) as the most important problem they face. “Every child in America is a risk of using drugs, regardless of race, ethnicity, or economic status.’ -National Survey of American Attitudes on Substance Abuse II.
The 2002 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) states that:
Among surveyed youths, ages 12 to 17, more than 1 in 9 (11.6 percent) reported current use of illegal drugs in the 30 days before the study.
• Marijuana is the major illegal drug used by this group; 8.2 percent of youths were current users of marijuana in 2002.
• Among 12 and 13-year-olds surveyed, 4.2 percent reported current illegal drug use. The primary drugs used by 12 and 13-year-olds were marijuana, nonmedical use of prescription pain relievers, and inhalants.
Statistics show that, fortunately, the majority of youth do not use drugs. However, some parents still underestimate how often their kids are exposed to drugs. According to the Partnership for a Drug-Free America (an organization that conducts attitude surveys of youth and parents):
• Eighteen percent of parents think their child has tried marijuana versus 40 percent of teens who say they have tried marijuana.
• Thirty-one percent of parents believe their teen has been offered drugs versus 52 percent of teens who say they have been offered drugs.
• Four percent of parents think their child has abused inhalants versus 19 percent of teens who say they have abused inhalants.
If your child uses drugs, what other risks might he face? According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA):
• Youth, ages 12 to 17, who smoke cigarettes are over 8 times more likely to use illegal drugs and over 17 times more likely to drink heavily than nonsmoking youth.
• Youth, ages 12 to 17, who use marijuana weekly are nine times more likely than nonusers to experiment with illegal drugs or alcohol, six times more likely to run away from home, five times more likely to steal, nearly four times more likely to engage in violence, and three times more likely to have thoughts about committing suicide.
Drug use among teens prevalent! Parents, don’t put you head in the sand. Look up, more importantly, look at your kids. They are being tempted nearly every day with drugs and alcohol. If you drug test your teen, they are more likely to say no!
Drug Test Resources:
Parents Drug Resource - http://www.uatests.com/drug-testing-information/parent-drug-resource.html
Home Drug Test - http://www.uatests.com/types-of-drug-tests/home-drug-test.html
Marijuana Drug Test - http://www.uatests.com/drug-test-by-drug/thc-marijuana.html
If you answered “yes,” then talk with your child about alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs. Find out what he or she knows. Explain to her that using these substances can interfere with studying and can cause grades to suffer by affecting memory and learning skills. Describe the harmful health effects of these substances. Let him know how these substances can cause problems in relationships and among friends and can tear families apart. Study after study has found that parents make a difference in the choices their children make. For more information on advice for parents, see Parent Drug Resource. Parents, please know that you make a difference!
By the time they enter preschool, most children have seen adults smoking cigarettes or drinking alcohol either in real life or in the media, or both. Children today are exposed to illegal drugs as early as elementary school, so it’s never too early to talk with your child about drugs.
Do You Want Your Kid To Be Drug Free?
If you want to help keep your kids drug free, you are the key! Here are seven action steps you can take to help keep your kids off of drugs:
1. Establish and maintain good communication with your child.
2. Get involved in your child’s life.
3. Make clear rules and enforce them with consistency and appropriate consequences.
4. Be a positive role model.
5. Teach your child to choose friends wisely.
6. Monitor your child’s activities.
7. Drug test your kids.
Focus on these seven key things and you will go a long way to help your child grow up drug free.
Drugs Are Everywhere
Drug use among teens cuts across all ethnic, geographic, and socioeconomic lines. Youth, especially teens, experience pressure to use alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs at increasingly early ages. In fact, in one survey, adolescents ages 12 to 17 named drugs (along with social and academic pressures) as the most important problem they face. “Every child in America is a risk of using drugs, regardless of race, ethnicity, or economic status.’ -National Survey of American Attitudes on Substance Abuse II.
The 2002 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) states that:
Among surveyed youths, ages 12 to 17, more than 1 in 9 (11.6 percent) reported current use of illegal drugs in the 30 days before the study.
• Marijuana is the major illegal drug used by this group; 8.2 percent of youths were current users of marijuana in 2002.
• Among 12 and 13-year-olds surveyed, 4.2 percent reported current illegal drug use. The primary drugs used by 12 and 13-year-olds were marijuana, nonmedical use of prescription pain relievers, and inhalants.
Statistics show that, fortunately, the majority of youth do not use drugs. However, some parents still underestimate how often their kids are exposed to drugs. According to the Partnership for a Drug-Free America (an organization that conducts attitude surveys of youth and parents):
• Eighteen percent of parents think their child has tried marijuana versus 40 percent of teens who say they have tried marijuana.
• Thirty-one percent of parents believe their teen has been offered drugs versus 52 percent of teens who say they have been offered drugs.
• Four percent of parents think their child has abused inhalants versus 19 percent of teens who say they have abused inhalants.
If your child uses drugs, what other risks might he face? According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA):
• Youth, ages 12 to 17, who smoke cigarettes are over 8 times more likely to use illegal drugs and over 17 times more likely to drink heavily than nonsmoking youth.
• Youth, ages 12 to 17, who use marijuana weekly are nine times more likely than nonusers to experiment with illegal drugs or alcohol, six times more likely to run away from home, five times more likely to steal, nearly four times more likely to engage in violence, and three times more likely to have thoughts about committing suicide.
Drug use among teens prevalent! Parents, don’t put you head in the sand. Look up, more importantly, look at your kids. They are being tempted nearly every day with drugs and alcohol. If you drug test your teen, they are more likely to say no!
Drug Test Resources:
Parents Drug Resource - http://www.uatests.com/drug-testing-information/parent-drug-resource.html
Home Drug Test - http://www.uatests.com/types-of-drug-tests/home-drug-test.html
Marijuana Drug Test - http://www.uatests.com/drug-test-by-drug/thc-marijuana.html
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Home Drug Test Kits
Need a home drug test? Home drug test kits are easy to use and very inexpensive to buy. I recommend using the urine home drug test for three reasons. One, urine drug tests have been around for many years now and they are extremely accurate. Some of the tests are over 99% accurate! Two, the home urine drug test is really easy to use. Simply take a urine sample, dip the test and read the results. It couldn’t be easier! Three, urine tests are very inexpensive, only $2.95 each (lower in bulk).
Keep the home or work place safe and sober is vitally important, and the products we provide will ensure that our children, friends and/or employees are clean. The assumption of safety is no longer necessary in such situations. The experts are UATests.com are committed to providing the tools and information necessary in obtaining the goal of a sober society.
We provide discount home drug test kits to parents because we know that drug testing can help save lives! There are many reasons to buy a urine home drug test kit or a saliva home drug test kit, but no matter what the reason, it is important that the test be accurate. You can rest assured that we sell the most reliable home test kits available. All of the drug tests we sell are professional grade tests that are used in professional drug testing clinics and hospitals. Therefore, when you use one of our urine drug tests in the privacy of your own home, you have the assurance that the drug test results will be accurate every time.
With our home drug test kits you can have the peace of mind that comes with knowing your drug tests results instantly, in the privacy of your own home or work environment. These test kits are SAFE, ACCURATE, FAST and can be done in PRIVACY and are very AFFORDABLE. We offer a wide variety of drug test kits and supplies, but the most popular home drug test kits are:
Single Panel Drug Test
OrAlert – Saliva Drug Test
Multi-Panel Drug Test
Integrated Drug Test Cup
Alco Screen
Smokers – Nicotine – Cotinine Test Device
Each of these could be found on our website at:www.UATests.com
Our FDA approved Home Drug test kits are very accurate. They provide rapid results for an effective drug testing solution. They have been compared with the top Home Drug test kits in the nation by independent laboratories and found to be one of the top drug test kits in regard to accuracy and reliability. The result is that our drug test kits are extremely ACCURATE and RELIABLE (up to 99.9% accuracy).
You many want to utilize these tests products the help protect the health and wellness of your family members and friends that you suspect may be using illicit drugs. As parents or other concerned individuals, should you suspect the use of recreational drugs, these home drug test kits would provide help without invasion of your privacy. Our self-help drug tests provides substance abuse testing of BAR (barbiturates), TCA (Tricyclic antidepressants), AMP (amphetamines), BZO (benzodiazepine), COT (nicotine), Marijuana (THC, pot, cannabis), OPI (opiates, morphine, heroin), PCP, mAMP (methamphetamines), MDMA (ecstasy), cocaine (COC), and alcohol in the comfort and privacy of your own home.
Be sure to call 801-596-2709 for special pricing!
http://www.uatests.com/types-of-drug-tests/home-drug-test.html
Keep the home or work place safe and sober is vitally important, and the products we provide will ensure that our children, friends and/or employees are clean. The assumption of safety is no longer necessary in such situations. The experts are UATests.com are committed to providing the tools and information necessary in obtaining the goal of a sober society.
We provide discount home drug test kits to parents because we know that drug testing can help save lives! There are many reasons to buy a urine home drug test kit or a saliva home drug test kit, but no matter what the reason, it is important that the test be accurate. You can rest assured that we sell the most reliable home test kits available. All of the drug tests we sell are professional grade tests that are used in professional drug testing clinics and hospitals. Therefore, when you use one of our urine drug tests in the privacy of your own home, you have the assurance that the drug test results will be accurate every time.
With our home drug test kits you can have the peace of mind that comes with knowing your drug tests results instantly, in the privacy of your own home or work environment. These test kits are SAFE, ACCURATE, FAST and can be done in PRIVACY and are very AFFORDABLE. We offer a wide variety of drug test kits and supplies, but the most popular home drug test kits are:
Single Panel Drug Test
OrAlert – Saliva Drug Test
Multi-Panel Drug Test
Integrated Drug Test Cup
Alco Screen
Smokers – Nicotine – Cotinine Test Device
Each of these could be found on our website at:www.UATests.com
Our FDA approved Home Drug test kits are very accurate. They provide rapid results for an effective drug testing solution. They have been compared with the top Home Drug test kits in the nation by independent laboratories and found to be one of the top drug test kits in regard to accuracy and reliability. The result is that our drug test kits are extremely ACCURATE and RELIABLE (up to 99.9% accuracy).
You many want to utilize these tests products the help protect the health and wellness of your family members and friends that you suspect may be using illicit drugs. As parents or other concerned individuals, should you suspect the use of recreational drugs, these home drug test kits would provide help without invasion of your privacy. Our self-help drug tests provides substance abuse testing of BAR (barbiturates), TCA (Tricyclic antidepressants), AMP (amphetamines), BZO (benzodiazepine), COT (nicotine), Marijuana (THC, pot, cannabis), OPI (opiates, morphine, heroin), PCP, mAMP (methamphetamines), MDMA (ecstasy), cocaine (COC), and alcohol in the comfort and privacy of your own home.
Be sure to call 801-596-2709 for special pricing!
http://www.uatests.com/types-of-drug-tests/home-drug-test.html
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