Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Stop Teen Drug Abuse !


Thousands of bloggers from around the world are joining together this Thursday, September 27th with a single message: Stop Abuse!

On Thursday, September 27th, post about any abuse topic you care about - child abuse, domestic abuse, animal abuse, drug abuse, emotional abuse, verbal abuse, political abuse - and let the world know you stand united with thousands of bloggers as part of the Bloggers Unite "Blog Against Abuse" campaign.

I have chosen Teen Drug abuse to write about.
I have seen so many lives ruined because of drug abuse. I had one sister-in-law that killed herself, because she was high, and depressed at the same time.. I had another  sister -in-law that died of a drug overdose. My brother has been in and out of prison, with drug felonies, starting in his teen years. Not only does this hurt their lives, it hurts the people that love and care about them.
It's not just illegal drugs though, it's also prescription drugs..
I am trying to tell my kids not to put any drug into their body, that might inhibit their thinking clearly.. This can be even in over-the-counter drugs.. Drugs that help illnesses are good, but drugs just to make you feel good, when you feel down, can become addictive.. My sister-in-law was on anti-depressants... Well they did just the opposite.Here are some Warning Signs for parents regarding your kids/teens..
Please.. Talk to your kids.. Let them know what drugs can do..and how to differentiate the bad and the good..




P A R E N T  A L E R T

Parents who talk with their kids about the dangers of using drugs and alcohol reduce their child’s chances of using drugs and alcohol by approximately 50%. Here are some tips for getting this sensitive subject started:
State your rules on zero tolerance for drug and alcohol use with your children. Clearly define your expectations and explain the consequences they’ll face not only in your household, but from a legal standpoint as well.
Take advantage of everyday events and situations. Use stories from the newspaper or in the news. There is no shortage of famous people with real life substance abuse issues. Before you know it, you will be comfortable having an ongoing dialogue on this subject.
If asked, give your kids an honest answer to the question, “Did you ever use drugs?” You shouldn't’ give them explicit details but make sure to tell them about the negative consequences of that decision.
Watch TV with your kids, especially their favorites. This will not only give you an inside look into their culture but it can be a springboard for discussions about teen drug and alcohol use and much more.
Role play with your kids about how to handle specific situations that might come up where drugs or alcohol are offered or available.


Bunches of hugs .......

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