Kids may not realize the enormous risk they are taking. Inhalants starve the body of oxygen and can cause severe brain damage and even sudden death. Prescription drugs, such as Ritalin, can be sold and abused as street drugs. Be sure to monitor the medications taken by everyone in your household. Warn your children of the dangers of taking even legal drugs that have not been prescribed for them by a doctor.
Teens live every day with the reality of easily available drugs.
Peer pressure and positive images of drug use in the media can push them toward drug abuse. Parents need to deal with that reality. They need to offer hope and help. Let your kids know it's okay to act independently. Teach them to say no.