Crack babies may have developmental difficulties as they grow older. Teens and young adults may not be aware of the dangers of using cocaine, especially the threat of addiction and overdose. Any use of cocaine or crack is particularly dangerous because the physical effects can be severe, causing unexpected death in some. In addition, cocaine use can cause violent behavior and suicidal tendencies. Before reaching adolescence, youth need to receive the support, guidance, and opportunities to develop healthy bonds with parents, schools, and communities.
Parents can help by becoming informed and talking to their teenagers about drug use.
Participation in extracurricular activities, the expression of parental disapproval of using drugs, and parental attendance at school events are associated with less drug experimentation. Communities can help by decreasing the availability of drugs, promoting drug-free homes and environments, and by supporting drug use prevention programs. You may also contact your family physician, hospital, or yellow pages for other intervention and treatment options. Other sources can be found at your local public library and in the yellow and blue pages of your phone book under Drug Abuse. The National Institute on Drug Abuse has national statistics and the latest research findings available.