A site for parents and teens who want to be better informed about
drug abuse and addiction as it affects young people today.
Teen Brains More Susceptible to Addiction
The teen years are not easy years. New schools, new friends, more difficult homework, puberty, growth spurts, voice changes, acne, and the joy and despair that come along with girlfriends/boyfriends are enough concerns to occupy a teenager’s brain. They are too young to have complete independence but too old to be treated like a little child.
Teen Risk-Takers May Be More Susceptible to Substance Abuse
Posted on January 18, 2012 in
Research & News
Some kids need encouragement to go down the slide at the park while other kids are endlessly seeking out the tallest tree to climb or the craziest stunt to pull. There is no question that kids and teens are wired differently. A recent study warns that there appears to be a bio-chemical reason why some kids take more risks than others and one that could make them more susceptible to abusing substances.
From K2 to K3: New Form of Synthetic Marijuana Popular with Teens
Posted on January 13, 2012 in
Drugs
When the Drug Enforcement Administration outlawed five chemicals commonly found in synthetic marijuana products like Spice and K2 last March, it was no surprise that replacements were already on the way. All it took was a minor change in chemical make-up to get around the ban, and thus emerged K3.
Adolescent Alcohol Use Linked to Criminal Activity
Posted on January 5, 2012 in
Alcohol
Both alcohol consumption and criminal activity are a troubling occurrence among adolescents, and both are linked with more significant problems as an individual matures into adulthood. Alcohol used for recreation in adolescence may transition into alcohol addiction in adulthood, and crimes like vandalism in adolescence can transition into more serious offenses.
Intervention Programs Aimed at Adolescent Girls Measured for Effectiveness
Posted on December 24, 2011 in
Research & News
A troubling trend appears to be emerging among adolescent girls. According to a recent Find Articles report, more than one-fifth of eighth-grade girls have reported alcohol use in the last month. Marijuana rates among this demographic are rising faster than boys of the same age.
Protecting Our Children From Drug Use
Posted on December 13, 2011 in
For Parents
Former Brazilian President, Fernando Henrique Cardoso, has posed the question, "Would legal regulation and control of drugs better protect children?" in a recent news article. Cardoso feels strongly about the subject of protecting children and how drug law reform affects them. He has made several recommendations on the subject.
Hospitalizations for Drug and Alcohol Increase Among Teens
Posted on November 30, 2011 in
Research & News
Reaching teenagers before they hit their college and young adult years with prevention and educational information about drugs and alcohol is critical. Those who begin using drugs and alcohol during the teen years often go on to continue dangerous practices into adulthood. This extended exposure means that their bodies are also exposed longer to the risks associated with these substances.
