KIDS AND DRUGS...WHAT PARENTS NEED TO KNOW

What is the nature of addiction? In the 1930s scientist began to study the addictive behavior and the affects of drug use. Powerful myths and misconceptions existed to suggest that drug use and addiction may be linked to flawed morality and willpower. Because of this, society's response to drug abuse was treated as more of a moral failing rather than a health problem. Science today is much different in that groundbreaking discoveries about the brain have revolutionized our understanding of drug addiction. Now we can educate ourselves and our children about the biological and environmental factors that contribute to the development and progression of a disease called addiction.

Teenagers today view drug use as a right of passage. Alcohol is usually followed by pot which is followed by a class of drugs known as club drugs. These drugs are typically used by teenagers and young adults, at bars, club, concerts, and parties. The most common club drugs include Ecstasy (MDMA); GHB, Rohypnol, Ketamine, methamphetamine, and acid or LSD. These drugs are powerful in that they can cause changes in brain function, coma, and seizures. In some cases delirium and amnesia incapacitates the user which in and of itself can be dangerous because of the occurrence of rape and other sex related crimes.

As parents and educators we should be aware of the disturbing statistics surrounding the use of this class of drugs which have the potential to steal our loved ones from us. Results of the 2007 MONITORING THE FUTURE survey indicate that 2.3% of eighth graders, 5.2% of tenth graders, and 6.5% of 12th graders reported lifetime use of MDA. Among 12-17 year olds surveyed as part of the 2006 NSDUH, 0.3% reported drug use in the last month. Approximately 30.4% of eighth graders, 45.3% of tenth graders, and 58.1% of 12th graders surveyed in 2007 reported that trying MDMA once or twice was a "great risk."

Parents should especially be aware of all night dances that may be referred to as "raves" by your teenagers. Raves are one of the most popular venues where club drugs are distributed. Some of these drugs are colorless, odorless, and tasteless and they can be added without detection to beverages by individuals who want to intoxicate or sedate others in order to commit sexual assaults. It is important for parents to be able to spot the signs of stimulant club drugs. Increased heart-rate, convulsions, and rise in body temperature, uncontrollable movements, insomnia, dehydration, high blood pressure are among some of the most severe side effects of using this class of drugs.

Parents should be aware that addiction starts with one time. Experimentation is a natural part of growing up so kids need to be educated with the facts. High stress levels caused by adolescence often lead to a need for escape and kids see these drugs a way to escape. Know the groups of friends that your child hangs out with, and let them know that you know. Ask where they are going, when they will be returning, and who they are going with. Remember, addiction starts with an initial try, then turns into a devil that will not let go until they are dead. Our kids expect us to protect them. So lets protect them every step of the way.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Smith.
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