Drug Awareness Information

By Dawne Gibson
 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 Service
 Substance abuse is a preventable
problem. You are powerful as a parent.
Most kids say they stay away from drugs because they m
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/
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
dgibson@tcss.net.