Transcript Drug Awareness Powerpoint

DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOUR
CHILDREN ARE DOING?
Drug Awareness Information
By Dawne Gibson
DID YOU KNOW THAT OVER 2.1 MILLION TEENS AGES
12-17 REPORTED ABUSING PRESCRIPTION DRUGS
(2006)?
Prescription and OTC drugs such as cold medicines, pain
relievers, sleeping aids, and even ADHD medicines are
commonly abused by young people. They are readily
available, and can be more dangerous than other drugs.
Some side effects include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, coma,
and even death. Abusing prescription drugs is a growing
problem in the US, therefore, start talking to your child
today about the dangers of drugs.
Why Do Kids Try Drugs?

The top reasons given by young people include…
1. To feel grown up
2. To fit in and belong
3. To relax and feel good
4. To take risks and rebel
5. To satisfy curiosity
Source:“Keeping Youth Drug-Free” program,
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO PROTECT YOUR CHILD?
Substance abuse is a preventable
problem. You are powerful as a parent.
Most kids say they stay away from drugs because they might
upset their parents.
Teach your kids the risks of drug use
and your stand on them.
Get and stay closely involved in your kids’ lives. Know
what is going on in their lives, who their friends are,
and the five “W’s”--who, what, when, where, and why.
Talk early and often to your kids about drugs and
alcohol use (average age kids start drugs is 9-12).
Be a parent, not a pal. Children need boundaries and
guidelines.
See how much you know, take a two-minute quiz
about drugs and how to detect drug use at
www.drugfree.org.
Other websites to visit
include:
http://talkingwithkids.org/
http://www.drugfreeaz.com/
http://www.theantidrug.com/
Talk to your kids today about the dangers of
drugs. You are their anti-drug.
If you need more information or would like to talk with your school
counselor, call Mrs. Gibson at 342-2644 extension 3 or email her at
[email protected].