The Choking Game: A Dangerous Way to Get High

Posted on February 2, 2012

For decades, parents have been told to talk with their children about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. Through the media, parents were educated on the importance of being aware of signs that their children might be experimenting with cocaine or marijuana.

But kids are smart and are finding new ways to get high from a practice of which their parents might not yet be aware. Looking for drugs in their dresser drawers and closets and smelling their breath or clothing will not likely help to find this newer practice. The Choking Game, also known as Pass Out, the Fainting Game, and Space Monkey, is when a person cuts off the supply of blood and oxygen to the brain to induce a high sensation.

Teen Brains More Susceptible to Addiction

Posted on January 25, 2012

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.

Protecting Our Children From Drug Use

Posted on December 13, 2011

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.

Without Enough Sleep, Teens’ Risk for Drug Abuse Rises

Posted on November 23, 2011

A new study by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has found an interesting correlation between students’ insufficient amount of sleep and their likelihood for engaging in multiple risky behaviors, including drug and alcohol abuse.

Pot Smoking Increases Risk for Car Crashes and Teen Depression

Posted on November 8, 2011

As efforts to legalize marijuana are increasingly successful in different regions of the United States, two new studies indicate that maybe the drug should come with a warning label.

Test Your Knowledge During National Medicine Abuse Awareness Month

Posted on October 25, 2011

Over-the-counter cough medicines and prescription drugs have become some of the most commonly abused drugs among teenagers. As the problem reaches crisis levels, the U.S. Senate has decided to take action in promoting awareness among parents and teens. In September 2011, it adopted a resolution designating October as National Medicine Abuse Awareness Month.

Why Your Teen’s Friends Matter

Posted on October 25, 2011

It is often said that “friends are the family we choose for ourselves.” When our siblings embarrass us and our parents just don’t understand, we turn to our friends for guidance and support. This is especially true during adolescence, when the opinions of peers begin to dictate how teens look, dress and act.

Boyfriends’ Friends Influence Drinking

Posted on October 11, 2011

Traditionally, parents have been encouraged to keep close tabs on who their child hangs out with, making special note of any friends or dating interests who may drink alcohol. Friends can provide important clues into a teenager’s choices, but there may be an even more powerful source of information.

Parents Unaware of Kids’ Alcohol and Marijuana Use

Posted on September 27, 2011

Parents want to believe the best about their own kids, not wanting to consider that one of their kids might be engaging in bad behavior, or even leading the pack. When it comes to some behaviors, however, such as those related to alcohol and drugs, it is critical for parents to have a sober view of their kids and open communication with them.

Parent Alert: Kratom Is New Drug Popular Among Teens

Posted on August 31, 2011

You know the signs of drug abuse. You even know that a new brand of “designer drugs” like Spice and bath salts threatens teens. But as you’re diligently researching the dangers facing your teen, new drugs are continually hitting the market. And even though they’re addictive, they’re legal in the United States and easily accessible on the Internet.