SECTION 1: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Arecent report showed that in 2015, about 2.2 million young people aged 12 to 17 were current (i.e., past 30 days) users of illicit (illegal) drugs.1 This substance use can lead to a variety of problems that may result in the escalation of use to a substance use disorder and place them at risk for other related health consequences.2

As parents, we want to raise healthy, drug-free children who learn and succeed in school and life. One way to do that is to keep their brains healthy. Those young brains continue to grow and develop into young adulthood. The front part of the brain (called the prefrontal cortex) helps us make good decisions and control our emotions and desires. Introducing drugs or alcohol to the brain when it is still developing may cause serious changes that can last a long time.3 For example, problems with learning can develop that can make it hard to concentrate and can cause sleep disturbances.4

Students who use substances have a higher risk of failing or dropping out of school.5 Failing to graduate can then lead to unemployment.6 Plus, once students develop a substance use disorder, changes in their brain circuits compel them to look for and use alcohol or drugs even though it can be devastating for them and for those who love them.7

Bottom line: healthy students are better learners.8

ARE DRUGS AND ALCOHOL REALLY A PROBLEM FOR YOUNG KIDS?

In 2016, the University of Michigan released findings from the Monitoring the Future Survey, a national survey of students in the 8th, 10th, and 12th grade. The results showed that:

■ The majority of students (two out of three) said they drank alcohol (more than just a few sips) by the end of high school. About 26 percent of them did so by 8th grade. Nearly half of 12th graders and one in nine 8th graders reported being drunk at least once in their life.9

■ Almost half of 12th graders and nearly one third of 10th graders said they had used marijuana.10

Today, drugs cause a death in the United States every 13 minutes. More people die from accidental drug overdose in the United States each year than in motor vehicle accidents.11 The answer is yes— drugs and alcohol can be a real problem for our youth.

SINCE I AM AN ADULT, IS IT OKAY FOR ME TO USE?

Your children look up to you, and they want to be like you. Send a healthy message to your children. If you are a smoker or have a problem with alcohol or other drugs, seek help. Your life may depend on it, and so may theirs.

WILL MY CHILDREN THINK I AM TOO STRICT IF I TELL THEM NOT TO SMOKE, DRINK, AND USE DRUGS?

Developing a strong bond with your children at an early age is important, but as the parent, it is your job to provide the rules, structure, and discipline to raise a healthy child. Be a parent, not a pal. Set rules and consequences for breaking those rules. Your children will surely test you by pushing the boundaries. This is to be expected. Stay strong and follow through with the consequences previously set.

WILL MY KIDS LISTEN?

Adolescents who have a good bond with an adult are less likely to engage in risky behaviors.12 Tell your children you don’t want them drinking or using drugs. Explain to them how you feel and what you expect from them. For example, you might say:

■ “I know you may be tempted to try drugs, but I also know you’re really smart. That’s why I expect you to avoid drugs—no matter what your friends do. Agreed?”

■ “It worries me to know how easily you could damage your brain or develop an addiction. Will you promise me you won’t try things just because the people you hang out with try them?”

Spend time with your kids and learn what is going on in their lives. If they think you will be there for them, they will be more likely to talk to you about drugs or situations that make them feel uncomfortable. This is especially important during times of change—such as a new school, a move, or a divorce—when they may feel anxious.13

WHAT IF MY CHILD ALREADY SMOKES, DRINKS, OR HAS TRIED ILLEGAL DRUGS?

If you learn that your child is using or has used alcohol or drugs, it is important to be prepared to respond.

Remember, preventing the first substance use can help prevent possible misuse, and preventing misuse prevents substance use disorders. But if you suspect substance use, be prepared to talk to your child, directly, to find out if he or she is using substances. Learn about resources you can access to help your child stop his or her substance use. Addressing the substance use and seeking treatment services, if necessary, can help your child stay on or get back on a positive development track. Remember, treatment works and you can help to change your child’s future!