HELP LESSEN THE CHANCES OF DRUG ABUSE AMONG CHILDREN

THE PARENT'S ROLE:

Be a good example.

-- Parents should evaluate their use of alcohol, tobacco, prescription and other drugs. It's possible their actions speak louder than their words.

Communicate family values.

-- Talking about the importance of moral and religious values, including honesty, responsibility and independence, will help children make good decisions.

Set and enforce rules at an early age

-- The onset of adolescence is too late to start setting standards of behavior. By explaining rules and their consequences early, children have appropriate guidelines to aid them in decision-making.

Educate yourself about substance abuse

-- Understanding the signs and symptoms of substance abuse helps parents recognize a problem early on.

Involve children in outside activities.

-- Productive activities like sports, church groups or service groups can boost self-esteem and take up unproductive "free" time.

THE CHILD'S ROLE:

Realize you are important.

-- Children have unique abilities and talents that are valuable to others.

Take responsibility for your actions.

-- Peer pressure can be resisted with the right education. Get involved in positive activities, make new friends, and remember -- a real friend is someone who will help you be the best you can be without drugs.

Understand you are not responsible for the behavior of your parents.

-- It's OK to feel angry, frustrated, embarrassed or confused by your parents' abuse of alcohol or other drugs. A trusted teacher, family friend or law enforcement officer may provide ways to help.

Seek help if you abuse alcohol or drugs.

-- Alcoholism and drug addiction can be overcome. There is always hope.

THE COMMUNITY'S ROLE

Provide parent programs.

-- Programs incorporating parental involvement reduce drug use and strengthen communities. Effective programs strengthen communication, support parents who refuse to allow alcohol and drugs at parties, provide information about sources of alcohol and drugs and reinforce keeping children drug-free.

Provide sports programs.

-- Sports programs can teach young people about the dangers of substance abuse while promoting physical fitness and fun. Children learn to take pride in accomplishments and increase self-esteem. Coaches can also serve as mentors and counselors to students who have personal problems.

* Source: "Let's All Work to Fight Drug Abuse!"

(There will be another graphic available listing community resources for this page -- Should be typed by Friday.)