ALCOHOL AND THE TEENAGE BRAIN

Here is a quick story from NPR on what the researchers have to say about alcohol use and the teenage brain. 
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=122765890

SURVIVING THE HOLIDAYS WITH A TROUBLED TEEN

The holiday season is often portrayed as a time for happy families to come together but if your family includes a troubled teen the holiday season may be anything but happy.
Here are a few guidelines that may help everyone.

http://parentingteens.about.com/od/parentingtroubledteens/a/Holidays-With-Troubled-Teens.htm?nl=1

RED RIBBON WEEK

The Traffic Safety Resource Office announces two competitions.  Pass it on and win!

Seeking Red Ribbon Week Awards Nominations: Did you or your community or school organize any kind of celebration of Red Ribbon Week?  If so, you may have the opportunity to win an award to recognize your achievements! Hurry - the deadline to submit is Friday, November 18, 2011.

To download the nomination form, go here.

Act Out Loud 2012 is Here! From October 14, 2011 - January 13, 2012, teams are invited to enter the contest to participate in three different activities that focus on stronger teen driver safety laws. Teams that complete all three activities will be eligible for the $10,000 grand prize.

For all contest details, go here.

 

LAWRENCE HIGH STUDENTS FOR PREVENTION

We have an amazing group of students from Lawrence High.  The New Tradition Youth Coalition called the FYI Club is dedicated to working within their peer group to encourage drug and alcohol free lifestyles.  Please support these students by grabbing the family and attending the Lawrence High Talent Show on November 2nd. 

The 7th Annual LHS FYI Talent show will be in the Lawrence High auditorium on Wednesday, Nov 2, 2011 at 7:00pm!

FYI Youth Coalition sponsors a Talent Show to provide an opportunity for students to participate in a performance event, even if they do not participate in choir, orchestra or band. The proceeds from this show will benefit students in 2 ways:  first, half of the proceeds will help LHS students with financial needs throughout the rest of this year, and second, half of the proceeds will provide a scholarship for students who have worked in prevention. Tickets may be purchased at the door before the event: adults-$4, students K-12-$3 and children ages 4 and under are free. Local businesses support this event by donating dozens of prizes used for the contestants as well as door prizes for the audience. Join us as we celebrate the voices and talents of our local youth!

Diane Ash

Prevention Specialist/Team Leader

Lawrence High School

1901 Louisiana

Lawrence, Kansas 66044

785-832-5050 ext 1449;785-832-5054 fax

dash@usd497.org

HOW TO TALK TO YOUR TEENS ABOUT SMOKING

Denise Whitmer is an author and has a very informative web site for parents.  Here is some help for parents when talking to teens and preteens about smoking.  Read the article below:
http://parentingteens.about.com/bio/Denise-Witmer-403.htm?nl=1

RED RIBBON WEEK OCT 22-30

Red Ribbon week gives parents and teachers a chance to talk about drugs and drug use in our community.  Talking to our youth and listening to what they have to say is a most important step we can take to keep our youth healthy.

From the National DEA:  A little History

Drug Enforcement Administration
Office of Public Affairs
202-307-7977

	Red Ribbon Anti-Drug Campaign
	Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s oldest and largest drug prevention program in the nation reaching millions of Americans during the last week of October every year. By wearing red ribbons and participating in community anti-drug events, young people pledge to live a drug-free life and pay tribute to DEA Special Agent Enriqué “Kiki” Camarena. Special Agent Kiki Camarena: Special Agent Camarena was an 11-year veteran of the DEA assigned to the Guadalajara, Mexico, office where he was on the trail of the country’s biggest marijuana and cocaine traffickers. In 1985, he was extremely close to unlocking a multi-billion dollar drug pipeline. On February 7, 1985, he was kidnapped, brutally tortured, and murdered by Mexican drug traffickers. His tragic death opened the eyes of many Americans to the dangers of drugs and the international scope of the drug trade.  History of Red Ribbon Week: Shortly after Kiki’s death, Congressman Duncan Hunter and Kiki’s high school friend Henry Lozano launched “Camarena Clubs” in Kiki’s hometown of Calexico, California. Hundreds of club members pledged to lead drug-free lives to honor the sacrifice made by Kiki Camarena. These pledges were delivered to First Lady Nancy Reagan at a national conference of parents combating youth drug use. Several state parent organizations then called on community groups to wear red ribbons during the last week of October as a symbol of their drug-free commitment. The first Red Ribbon Week celebrations were held in La Mirada and Norwalk, California In 1988, the National Family Partnership (NFP) coordinated the first National Red Ribbon Week with President and Mrs. Reagan serving as honorary chairpersons. How to Celebrate Red Ribbon Week: The NFP estimates that more than 80 million people participate in Red Ribbon events each year. The campaign is a unified way for communities to take a stand against drugs and show intolerance for illicit drug use and the consequences to all Americans. Schools, businesses, the faith community, media, families, and community coalitions join together to celebrate Red Ribbon Week in many ways, such as: sponsoring essay and poster contests; organizing drug-free races; decorating buildings in red; handing out red ribbons to customers; holding parades or community events; and by publicizing the value of a drug-free, healthy lifestyle. DEA joins with community coalitions and prevention groups to plan and carry out Red Ribbon activities, ranging from classroom events to stadium-sized rallies.

CELEBRATE FAMILY DAY

Celebrate Family Day-A day to eat dinner with your children on September 26, 2011
The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse  (CASA) created Family Day – A Day to Eat Dinner with Your Children™ in 2001, as a national effort to promote family dinners as an effective way to reduce substance abuse among children and teens. Family Day is celebrated on the fourth Monday in September.  Plan your family dinners as often as you can for a healthy community.  Make it special (and more enticing) by occasionally inviting your child's friend.

GOT DRUGS? JOIN LAWRENCE TAKE BACK DAY

Help stop the abuse of perscription drugs.  There is a new trend in Lawrence.  Six of the top ten drugs used by high school seniors were either perscribed or purchased over the counter.  Check your homes for any unused or outdated medications.  Bring to the Law Enforcement Center at 111 E 11th St. (11th and New Hampshire).  Sponsored by the Douglas County Sherrif's Department, Lawrence Police Department and the DEA.  Officers  will be outside collecting and will safely dispose of these potentially harmful medications.  Let's keep these drugs out of the hands of Lawrence youth.

If you cannot come on October 29th, then follow the Kansas Department of Health and Environment disposal recommendations for pharmaceuticals. Prepare excess medications as follows: crush or dissolve pills in water, coffee, or another liquid. Make a paste of the dissolved pills or liquid medication by adding it to kitty litter or coffee grounds. Put the paste in a closed container, making sure any personal markings are removed. Then put the closed container in the trash.

CENTER FOR ADDICTION AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE REPORT

CASA Columbia Releases 2011 Teen Survey: National Survey of American Attitudes on Substance Abuse XVI: Teens  and Parents
Last week, The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University released the National Survey of American Attitudes on Substance Abuse XVI: Teens and Parents.  Click for the summary.

LAWRENCE SERVER TRAINING FOR BARS & RESTAURANTS

On August 28th, at Lawrence Arts Center  representatives from local agencies provided training, including on how to detect fake IDs, for local alcohol servers and retailers. More than 150 staff members from 31 bars and restaurants and three liquor stores attended. Jen Jordan ofDCCCA said organizers were pleased with the turnout, even though they wished more retailers would have attended.

NEW TRADITION COALITION INITIATIVES

The New Tradition Coalition is involved im three initiatives to help stop underage drinking in Lawrence.  read the Lawrence Journal World article for more info.
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2011/aug/29/local-efforts-will-target-underage-drinking/

NTC PARENT DISCUSSION CORNER

What did you do when your child told you a friend was drinking? Smoking marijuana? Getting high on pills or other drugs?
Lawrence Parents, please add your comments to the question above and let's talk.

DON'T BE BLIND TO THE CONSEQUENCES

Check out this You Tube clip from the Prevention and Recovery Service in Topeka.  Pass it on.

FAMILY ATTITUDES SET THE STAGE TOWARD ALCOHOL USE IN YOUTH

Influence of Family Factors and Supervised Alcohol Use on Adolescent Alcohol Use and Harms: Similarities Between Youth in Different Alcohol Policy Contexts

McMorris, B., Catalano, R., Jung Kim, M., Toumbourou, J., and Hemphill, S. May 2011. Journal of Studies and Alcohol and Drugs, Vol. 72, Pages 418-428.


Objective of the Study: Harm-minimization policies suggest that alcohol use is a part of normal adolescent development and that parents should supervise their children’s use to encourage responsible drinking. Zero-tolerance policies suggest that all underage alcohol use should be discouraged. This article compared hypotheses derived from harm minimization and zero-tolerance policies regarding the influence of family context and supervised drinking on adolescent alcohol use and related harms among adolescents in Washington State, USA, and Victoria, Australia, two states that have respectively adopted zero-tolerance and harm-minimization policies.

Method: Representative samples of seventh-grade students (N = 1,945; 989 females) were recruited from schools in each state. Students completed comprehensive questionnaires on alcohol use, related problem behaviors, and risk and protective factors annually from 2002 to 2004 when they were in ninth grade.

Results: Relationships between family context and alcohol use and harmful use were very similar in both states. Adult-supervised settings for alcohol use were associated with higher levels of harmful alcohol consequences. Adult-supervised alcohol use mediated the links between favorable parental attitudes to alcohol use and ninth-grade alcohol use for students in both states.

Conclusions: Despite policy differences in the two states, relationships between family context variables and alcohol use and harmful use are remarkably similar. Adult-supervised settings for alcohol use resulted in higher levels of harmful alcohol consequences, contrary to predictions derived from harm-minimization policy. Findings challenge the harm-minimization position that supervised alcohol use or early-age alcohol use will reduce the development of adolescent alcohol problems.

To learn more about this study, click on http://www.udetc.org/documents/judicial/201106eNews/supervised.pdf or copy and paste this link to your internet browser in order to locate the information.

CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY

The New Tradition Coalition wants to remind you to celebrate your Independence responsibly-

If you're hosting a party where alcohol is served, make sure to do so responsibly. Some things to keep in mind are:

• Line-up designated drivers or make sleeping accommodations for your guests who are drinking.
• Be sure to serve plenty of non-alcoholic drinks.
• Serve enough substantive food. Consumption of food will help absorb alcohol. 
• Stop serving alcohol at a set time. This will give guests a chance to sober up. 
• If your guests are intoxicated -- take away the keys. If you let someone leave your home after they've had too much to drink, you could be held responsible if they hurt themselves or someone else.
• Don't serve to minors. It's illegal, dangerous and irresponsible.   

If you're doing some traveling, here are a few tips:

• Whenever you plan on using alcohol, designate a sober driver before going out and give that person the keys.
• If you're impaired, call a taxi, use mass transit or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely.
• Promptly report drunk drivers you see on the roadways to law enforcement. 
• Wearing your safety belt or if you're riding a motorcycle, make sure to wear a helmet and other protective gear.
• While traveling to and from celebrations on your motorcycle, remember to make yourself visible and ride your motorcycle where you can be seen to avoid a crash. 
• If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.

ADVICE ABOUT PARENT TROUBLED TEENS

Parents of troubled teens need expert advice and support. Read the information below to help you stay on the right track. And keep in mind - troubled teens do get better.
http://parentingteens.about.com/od/parentingtroubledteens/a/6-Tips-For-Parenting-Troubled-Teens.htm?nl=1

STICKER SHOCK

Dozens of area high school students visited local liquor stores last Saturday morning, but they weren’t trying to buy liquor. They had a message for of-age consumers: Don’t buy alcohol for them. Visit these articles about the New Tradition Youth Coalition and see their efforts to curb the practice of buying alcohol for minors.

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2011/apr/14/high-schoolers-hope-sticker-shock-discourages-prov/
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2011/apr/16/high-school-students-take-stand-against-underage-d/

RESEARCH ON BULLYING

Research Note
Bullying Linked to Violence at Home
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently published the results of a study that suggests bullying may be associated with family violence.
To assess the association between family violence and other risk factors and being involved in or affected by bul¬lying, the CDC and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health analyzed data from the 2009 Massachusetts Youth Health Survey, an anonymous paper and pencil survey conducted every two years. The study included 2,859 middle school students and 2,948 high school students. Overall response rates were 55.8 percent and 66.7 percent for middle and high school students, respectively. The participants were categorized based on their responses to two survey items related to bullying. The following are the four student categories along with the percentage of surveyed students who fell in each category:
• Victims of bullying: 26.8 percent of middle school and 15.6 percent of high school students
• Bullies: 7.5 percent of middle school and 8.4 percent of high school students
• Bully-victims (those who had been victims of bullying and had bullied others): 9.6 percent of middle school and 6.5 percent of high school students
• Neither (those who had neither bullied others nor were victims of bullying): 50.6 percent of middle school and 69.5 percent of high school students

The study found that bullies, victims, and bully-victims were significantly more likely to be physically hurt by a family member or to have witnessed violence at home than students who were not involved in bullying. After adjusting for potential differences by age, group, sex, and race and ethnicity, researchers created the following adjusted odds ratios (AORs)—or likelihood of involvement in bullying:
• For middle school students being physically hurt by a member of the family: 2.9 for victims (that is, the odds of being a victim are 2.9 times higher than for someone who was not being physically hurt by a member of the family), 4.4 for bullies, and 5 for bully-victims
• For middle school students witnessing family violence, 2.6 for victims, 2.9 for bullies, and 3.9 for bully-victims
• For high school students being physically hurt by a family member: 2.8 for victims, 3.8 for bullies, and 5.4 for bully-victims
• For high school students witnessing family violence: 2.3 for victims, 2.7 for bullies, and 6.8 for bully-victims

The researchers also examined risk factors that have been well documented in previous studies. They found significantly elevated AORs for victims, bullies, and bully-victims for the majority of these risk factors. The following are some results (AORs) for middle school students:

• Seriously considering suicide: 3.0 for victims, 4.1 for bullies, and 6.6 for bully-victims
• Intentionally injuring themselves, 2.3 for victims, 3.1 for bullies, and 7.4 for bully-victims
• Feeling sad or hopeless, 2.3 for victims, 2.1 for bullies, and 4.2 bully-victims

Similar patterns were observed among high school students. This report presents the first state-specific data on a broad range of risk factors suspected to be associated with bullying for middle and high school students. The researchers note that these results “underscore the importance of primary bullying prevention programs and of comprehensive programs and strategies that involve families.”

This study was published in the April 22, 2011, Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

6 Tips to Create a Safe Prom and High-School Graduation Season for Your Teen

There’s something about prom and graduation season that makes rational parents go bonkers. Here are 6 tips for parents to help keep their teen safe and make this season one to remember for all the right reasons.

http://decoder.drugfree.org/2011/04/08/5-tips-to-create-a-safe-prom-and-high-school-graduation-season-for-your-teen/

PROM NIGHT DRAMA

A healthy discussion with your teenager may make prom night a little easier. Here are some articles on prom and alcohol, drugs, sex and more that may make those talks more comfortable and prom a little safer.

http://decoder.drugfree.org/category/education/high-school/prom/
http://decoder.drugfree.org/2010/04/29/for-a-safe-prom-night-parents-please-don%E2%80%99t-serve-alcohol-to-teens/

ARE TEENS GETTING ALCOHOL FROM MY HOME?

A new study of young teens revealed some surprising facts about their drinking habits, specifically where they get their booze. An estimated 700,000 U.S. kids in the 12 to 14 year old age group (which is about 5.9 percent) had consumed alcohol in the past month, and of those, nearly half got it for free from their family or at home. The study, conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) as part of the National Survey on Drug Abuse and Health, shows that family members can play a big role in reducing kids' access to alcohol and preventing underage drinking. "People who begin drinking alcohol before the age of 15 are six times more likely than those who start at age 21 and older to develop alcohol problems, " SAMSHA administrator Pamela Hyde told MHND. If you're one to have an occasional post-work cocktail or wine with dinner, you are likely have spirits in your house. But do you keep it under lock and key? Should you? Post Below. To read more about the study go to: http://www.drugfree.org/join-together/addiction/over-700000-young-teens-2

DESIGNER DRUGS

Ever heard of "fake marijuana" or "legal speed"? These are the new designer drugs and kids don't really know what they are taking. To find out more, read the Project Alert newsletter. http://www.projectalert.com/newsletters/spring-2011/designer-drugs-fashion-goes-synthetic

Here's a great book for teens written by a teen. Chandler Dewitt writes about choices youth make from junior high through young adulthood. It is a great book for teens who are transitioning from grade school, junior high and even high school seniors- a graduation gift that keeps on giving! Visit this link for details. http://www.connectwithkids.com/insideout/index.shtml

BUYERS BEWARE-SEE WHAT KIDS SAY

Watch this video and what teens and experts say about their experience when parents allow drinking in their homes. It is easy to allow underage drinking in your home and very difficult to control and monitor it the risky behavior that may follow. Should parents confer or ask if it is OK with other parents before letting their teen drink in their home? How are the teen drinking parties being monitored? Would you trust that your teen is safe? It is against the law. Is it worth it?
http://www.youtube.com/connectwithkids#p/u/2/xVemAO52BEk

LETTER TO PARENTS

Newsletter: April 2011

Teens, Parties, and Alcohol Don’t Mix

Many well-meaning parents think that it is enough to take away car keys at their teen’s parties so the teens can’t drink and drive. Parents provide the alcohol or allow alcohol to be consumed based on the false belief that it’s a rite of passage, especially at prom and graduation parties.

Parents often cite these two misguided reasons, safety and rite of passage, for hosting teen parties where alcohol is served. They believe it is “safer” for kids to drink at home, and may even think that hosting teen parties makes them appear to be a “cool” parent. When parents serve alcohol to teens in their home, in reality what they are doing is facilitating their kids’ comfort with alcohol. This practice sends a mixed message. Teens believe, “If it’s OK to drink at home, it’s OK to drink.” The reality is that the consequences can be overwhelming and in extreme cases fatal.

Parents planning to host parties for their teens should think twice before serving alcohol. Hosting a party for teenagers with alcohol can be costly. It is illegal, unsafe, and unhealthy for anyone under the age of 21 to drink alcohol.

Here are the laws in Lawrence:
• You cannot host minors consuming alcoholic liquor or cereal malt beverages at your residence, land, building or rented room (ex: hotel).

• As an adult, it is unlawful to directly or indirectly sell to, buy for, give or furnish any alcoholic liquor or beer to anyone under the age of 21.

• Furnishing/purchasing alcohol can result in a minimum fine of $200 and a sentence of up to 6 months in jail and up to $1,000 in fines plus, court and legal fees.

• Hosting a party carries a minimum fine of $1,000 or up to $2,500 with up to a year in county jail, plus court and legal fees.

We hope you will partner with the New Tradition Coalition and the City of Lawrence as we launch the “Parents Who Host, Lose The Most” public awareness campaign to help parents think about the dangers of teenage drinking parties. The campaign stresses to parents that hosting teen drinking parties should not be regarded as a “rite of passage” but as a health and safety problem with legal ramifications. Don’t be a party to teenage drinking. Refuse to supply alcohol to children in your home or on your property; be at home when your teenager has a party; make sure your teenager’s friends do not bring alcohol into your home (even if that means checking backpacks and purses); talk to other parents about providing alcohol-free beverages at youth events; provide teenagers with opportunities for alcohol-free events and activities, and report underage drinking. Call 1-866-MUST-BE-21, or your local police to report violations. Together, we can make the difference.

SPRING BREAK TIPS FOR TEENS AND PARENTS

Spring break is right around the corner. Here are some tips for parents and teens taking a trip. Feel free to print these pages and take to the dinner table. It is just another excuse to talk to teens! You'll be glad you did and they will have the tools to stay safe.

http://www.theantidrug.com/springbreak/

http://www.wcupa.edu/dps/PDF/Spring%20Break%20Tips.pdf

Many news outlets have picked up our story about the Fake ID 101 project in Lawrence, Kansas. It is an itiative that strives to create a community wide change in attitudes about underage drinking and using fake ID's to get alcohol. It is against the law and Lawrence is serious about it.
Pick a source and read more:

http://www.kansan.com/news/2011/mar/10/coalition-targets-fake-ids-among-students/?news
www.eldoradotimes.com/.../Lawrence-coalition-still-working-to-fight-fake- IDs
www.kansas.com/2011/03/.../group-turns-to-facebook-to-fight.html
www.allfacebook.com/facebook-ad-targets-teenagers-looking-for-fake-ids
blogs.pitch.com/.../ku_mclovins_beware_fake_id_crackdown_underway_in_ lawrence.php
www.fox4kc.com/.../wdaf-fake-id-crackdown-in-lawrence-20110307,0, 4533506.story
www.wibw.com/.../Group_Turns_To_Facebook_To_Fight_Fake_IDs_ 117516918.html

FAKE ID 101 CAMPAIGN

February 26, 2011 Excerpt from Lawrence Journal World article
No Faking: Lawrence police cracking down on bogus IDs
Archive for Saturday, February 26, 2011
Coalition uses KDOT grant to fight underage drinking

The Facebook ad targeted Lawrence area youths who might be looking for a fake ID.
Apparently, the power of advertising works.

A total of 5,247 people between the ages of 16 and 20 clicked on the ad that featured a fake ID using the character “McLovin’” from the movie “Superbad” during a 60-day period last semester.

But instead of getting a chance to obtain a fake ID that could be used to try to buy booze at Lawrence liquor stores and bars, people who clicked on the ad were directed to a website: the New Tradition Coalition of Lawrence, which combats alcohol abuse and underage drinking.

Coalition members said interest in the Facebook ad clearly illustrates the demand for fake IDs and the prevalence of underage drinking in Lawrence, particularly among Kansas University students.

“That bothered me because that many kids actually clicked on it because they were thinking they were going to get a fake ID,” said Jen Jordan, director of prevention for DCCCA. “We know that underage drinking is an issue in Lawrence and at KU and other colleges. We’re just trying to address it.”

Among the efforts is a project dubbed Fake ID 101.
See more at:
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2011/feb/26/no-faking-lawrence-police-cracking-down-bogus-ids/

MYTHS ABOUT KIDS & DRINKING

Young people drink to have a good time.
A RECENT NATIONAL SURVEY OF JUNIOR AND SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TELLS A MUCH DIFFERENT STORY. MORE THAN 30% OF TEENAGERS DRINK ALONE; BOREDOM AND EMOTIONAL DISTRESS ARE AMONG THE REASONS WHY THEY SAY THEY DRINK.

Alcohol is less dangerous than other drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, or LSD.
CAR CRASHES, SUICIDES. HOMICIDES AND DROWNING ARE ALL ASSOCIATED WITH ALCOHOL USE AND MAKE IT THE NUMBER–ONE DRUG PROBLEM FOR YOUNG PEOPLE. IN FACT, THE MOST LIKELY CAUSE OF DEATH FOR A 16-YEAR OLD IS ALCOHOL-RELATED.

If I let my child drink at home, he or she will be less likely to get into trouble with alcohol outside the home.
RESEARCH SHOWS TEENAGERS WHOSE PARENTS ALLOW THEM TO DRINK AT HOME ARE MORE LIKELY TO DRINK OUTSIDE THE HOME AND TO USE OTHER DRUGS. THEY ALSO HAVE A MUCH GREATER CHANCE OF DEVELOPING A SERIOUS PROBLEM.


So long as my child doesn’t drive, it’s okay for him or her to drink.
TEENS DON’T DRINK THE SAME WAY ADULTS DO. MANY TEENS ENGAGE IN “BINGE DRINKING” AND DOWN THEIR DRINKS QUICKLY SO THAT THEY WILL GET DRUNK. WHEN THEY ARE DRUNK THEY ARE MORE LIKELY TO DRINK AND DRIVE, OR TO RIDE WITH ANOTHER TEEN WHO HAS BEEN DRINKING.

A FEW UNDERAGE DRINKING FACTS

Every day, 5,400 young people under 16 have their first drink of alcohol. (Source: Center on Alcohol Marketing and Youth with calculations from Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2004 National Survey on Drug Use and Health)

Studies reveal that alcohol consumption by adolescents results in brain damage - possibly permanent -and impairs intellectual development. (Source: Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research (Volume 24, Number 2 National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism)

Adolescents drink less and have fewer alcohol-related problems when their parents discipline them consistently and set clear expectations. (Source: Hawkins JD, Graham JW, Maguin E, et al. 1997 Exploring the effects of age of alcohol use initiation and psychosocial risk factors on subsequent alcohol misuse. Journal of Studies on Alcohol. 58(3): 280-290)

When drinking is delayed until age 21, a child’s risk of serious alcohol problems is decreased by 70 percent. (Source: Calculated from information contained in: Grant BF, Dawson DA. 1997, Age at onset of alcohol use and its association with DSM-IV alcohol abuse and dependence. Results from the National Longitudinal Alcohol Epidemiologic Survey. Journal of Substance Abuse 9:103-110.)

NEW TEXTING & DRIVING LAW

May 24th, 2010 - Kansas Texting Bill Signed into Law
Kansas Senate Bill 300 has been signed into law by Governor Parkinson.

The new law prohibits drivers from writing, sending, or reading a text message while driving.

The ban on text messaging went into effect on January 1st, 2011.

The minimum fine is $60 plus court costs and the maximum fine is $150. The consequences of texting while driving are even higher! Share this new law with people you know.

KANSAS LAWS DUI & FAKE ID'S

Besides the obvious consequences that drinking and driving pose, minors may not know the legal consequences of drinking and driving. Fake ID's are easy to get in Lawrence. Many 21 year olds lend their duplicate ID's to friends. Parents, you can print this brochure and share the Kansas laws with your teens. They may be misinformed about blood alcohol content, penalties for BORROWED OR FAKE ID'S, drunk driving penalties and costs. Here's the scoop:
http://www.ktsro.org/images/DUIBrochureEnglish.pdf

34 WARNING Signs of Drug Use

If you are suspicious your child may be using drugs, don't ignore the warning signs. Children seldom grasp the concepts of addiction. Most view themselves as imperious to peril. For some teens, the stress of adolescence and pressure from their peers is overwhelming, and drugs become an enticing escape from their real world.

1. Neglected appearance/hygiene
2. Poor self image
3. Grades dropping
4. Violent outbursts at home
5. Frequent use of Eye Wash
6. Unexplained weight drop
7. Drug Paraphernalia
8. Slurred speech
9. Curfew violations
10. Running away
11. Skin abrasions
12. Hostility towards family members
13. Chemical breath
14.Glassy eyes
15.Red eyes
16.Valuables Missing
17. Possessing unexplained valuables
18. Stealing/borrowing money
19.Change in friends
20. Depression
21. Withdrawal
22.Apathy
23.Reckless Behavior
24.No Concern about future
25. Defiles Family Values
26. Disrespectful to parents
27. Lying/Deception
28. Sneaky behavior
29. Disregards Consequences
30. Loss of Interest in healthy activities
31. Verbally abusive
32. Manipulative/Self-Centered
33. Lack of Motivation
34. Truancy

What are the symptoms and warning signs of drug abuse?

Share with your family - kids need to know what goes on around them among their peers or others they may encounter throughout young adulthood. Knowing if a person is on drugs may help deal with risky situations. It's never too early to talk.

Signs that indicate a person is intoxicated or "high" on a drug depends on the substance with which he or she is intoxicated and include:
Tobacco products: frequent smell of tobacco, irritability, discolored fingertips, lips or teeth, cigarette butts at curbside;
Cannabinoids: reddened whites of eyes, sleepiness, excessive hunger, lack of motivation, excessive happiness, paranoia;
Cold medications: sleepiness, rapid or slowed heart rate;
Inhalants: runny nose, smell of gasoline or other solvent, confusion or irritability;
Depressants: sleepiness, lowered inhibitions, poor coordination, slowed heart rate or blood pressure, dizziness, coma, death in overdose;
Stimulants: rapid heart rate or blood pressure, irritability, excessive happiness, less need for sleep, paranoia, seizures;
Narcotics: less experiencing of pain, excessive happiness, sleepiness, slowed or stopped breathing, coma, death in overdose;
Hallucinogens: trouble sleeping, blurred perceptions, paranoia;
Dissociative anesthetics: higher blood pressure and heart rate, memory loss, nausea and vomiting, irritability, aggressiveness;
Club drugs (for example, Ecstasy): feverish teen that does not sweat, finding multiple lollipops or other hard candies, the teen seeming to love everyone and/or have an excessively happy mood (euphoria);
Others (for example, anabolic steroids): increased irritability or aggressiveness, rapid increase in muscle definition, thinning or loss of head hair, marked increase in acne over a short period of time, finding needles.
The physical symptoms of withdrawal from these drugs are often nearly the opposite of the effects of intoxication.

How can parents prevent drug use?

Here are a few simple things that researchers have found effective.

Clear communication by parentsabout the negative physical, emotional, and functional effects of drugs, as well as about their expectations regarding drug use have been found to significantly decrease substance abuse in teens. Adequate parental supervision has also been found to be a deterrent to drug use in youth. Specifically, parents knowing how, where, and with whom adolescents socialize, as well as limiting their children's access to substances that can be abused have been associated with less teenage drug use.

Limiting the amount of alcohol, cleaning solutions (inhalants), prescription, and over-the-counter medications that are kept in the home to amounts that can be closely monitored and accounted for has also been found to decrease substance abuse by teens.

Family focused abuse-prevention programs have produced reductions in adolescent drug abuse. Among ethnic minorities in the United States (for example African Americans, Hispanic, Native and Asian Americans), those who strongly identify with their communities and cultures have been found to be less likely to experience risk factors for using drugs compared to their peers who are less connected to their communities and cultures.

Therefore, incorporation of a cultural component to drug abuse prevention programs may enhance the effectiveness of those programs.

Moreover, teens 15 to 16 years old who use religion to cope with stress tend to use drugs significantly less often than their peers who do not use religion to cope.
Alcohol, and other drug use has been found to occur most often between the hours of 3 and 6 p.m., immediately after school and prior to parents coming home from work.

Teen participation in extracurricular activities has therefore been revealed as an important measure in preventing substance abuse in this age group.

KU Students Complete AlcoholEdu Course

KU instituted an online course two years ago to help educate students about alcohol use and abuse. It is the same test given by universities across the country. The test gives students the facts about drinking and the effects of alcohol on the body and brain. One thing teaches all students is how to spot alcohol poisoning and what to do if someone is in trouble. That is valuable in light of the recent alcohol related deaths on the KU campus. 94% of eligible students under the age of 22 completed the course.

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2010/nov/29/94-percent-ku-students-complete-alcoholedu-course/

HELP FOR TALKING TO YOUR CHILD

Remember the fried egg? ..."This is your brain on drugs." We were young then - maybe close to the age of our children now. The organization that put that campaign together is the "Partnership for a Drugfree America". It was around before there even was a world wide web. Today, they have a web site that helps parents every day.

The Partnership at Drugfree.org is a nonprofit organization that helps parents prevent, intervene in and find treatment for drug and alcohol use by their children. By bringing together renowned scientists, parent experts and communications professionals, we not only translate current research on teen behavior, addiction and treatment into easy to understand, actionable resources at drugfree.org, but we offer hope and help to the parents of the 11 million teens and young adults who need help with drugs and alcohol.

Their website allows parents to connect with each other, tap into expert advice and find support in their role as hero to their kids.

Suspect that your child is using alcohol or drugs? Check out this link and learn how to deal with it. Lots of great resources and ideas!

http://www.drugfree.org/intervene

Alcohol and Energy Drinks = A Bad Mix

Joose and Four Loko are just a couple of the names of these popular alcoholic drinks that are flying off the shelves. They are 24 ounce cans and have about 5.6 drinks in one can. These drinks have caused a huge stir due to the amount of alcohol you get at a very cheap price. The problem is they are a huge health risk because alcohol is a depressant and the energy drink is a stimulant. These two opposite beverages in the same can causes a lot of harm to the body. Some states have already banned them and now the FDA is looking into their safety. Kansas banned them and these drinks are to not be sold anymore after December 1st. For more information click on the link below:

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2010/nov/22/statehouse-live-alcoholic-energy-drinks-banned-sta/

ALCOHOL 101 COLLEGE

Here's a great web site to send on to your college bound or current college student. Try it out yourself then, pass it on to some young people in your life. This website, created for the Century Council, features a compelling and fun Flash presentation, information to curb alcohol abuse by college students, and an extensive private section of the website that includes an online discussion board.
Colorful, student-oriented graphics and layout keep the mood light, while thoroughly documented information on how to prevent alcohol abuse aimed at first year students, student athletes, fraternity members, and those who get caught drinking while driving helps students to address an issue that affects every college campus.

http://www.alcohol101plus.org/home.html

1 866 MUST B 21 (1 866 687 8221)

Heard about any unsupervised drinking parties your underage child may end up at this weekend? Do you know where underage youth are drinking right now or later tonight? Many Junior High and High Schoolers seek out homes in Lawrence, college friends' apartments and land just outside of town to have drinking parties with no adult supervision every weekend. Unfortunately, it is far too easy to get alcohol as a minor in Lawrence so, put 2 and 2 together and a dangerous situation is created.

What should concerned parents and community members do? Call for help. The Kansas Department of Transportation offers the 1-866-MUST-B-21 hot line to help curb underage drinking. The toll-free tip line operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is available for citizens to anonymously report parties involving underage drinking, plans to purchase alcohol for underage persons, and retailers who sell alcohol to underage persons.
Help us all keep kids safe and use this valuable service used by communities all across Kansas.

To anonymously report underage drinking or the sale of alcohol to a minor, call:

•1-866-MUST-B-21