Alcohol Awareness Month

(Part 2)

[March 19, 2010]  April is Alcohol Awareness Month. During this month, the Logan County Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Task Force reminds parents and adults of the importance of keeping the dialogue open with youth about underage drinking, tobacco and drug use. Here are some tips on how to talk with the youth around you:

Ask

If you want to know what is going on with your child, then ask. Research shows that when parents talk openly about drugs and drinking, youth have better self-control and are more likely to maintain open, trusting communication between themselves and their parents. If your child feels comfortable in talking and asking questions openly, you will have a greater chance in guiding him or her into healthy decision-making. The work that you put into communication now can greatly affect their decision-making in the future.

Control your emotions

By having open communication with your child, you may hear something that you don't like. It is important not to respond with anger. The best way to handle a situation like this is to take a couple of deep breaths or step back from the situation for a few moments. Once you are calmer, engage the child in conversation about the topic that concerns you and try to find out why they feel that way. Really listen to their explanation and respond in a constructive way.

Know the signs

Knowing what to look for is important in determining whether your child is drinking or using drugs and helps with starting the conversation. There are many good Web sites, such as www.timetotalk.org or www.timetoact.drugfree.org, that can help you identify signs that your child may be using. When looking for signs, keep in mind that some behaviors are normal youth behavior. As you get more familiar with this information, you will become more aware of the dangers of drugs and alcohol and what behaviors to look for.

Learn the risk factors associated with drugs and alcohol

Most youth choose not to drink or do drugs; however, there are risk factors that increase the likelihood of a youth using drugs or alcohol. Some of these factors may include:

• Little or no parental supervision or monitoring of child by the parent.

• Parents aren't clear about their feelings on drugs and alcohol.

• Inability to control impulses.

• If the youth begins drinking or using drugs early (10-12 years old).

• Academic difficulties beginning in elementary school.

• Learning disabilities.

• Easy availability of drugs and alcohol in the community.

Understanding the pressure of being a youth today

Living in the world today is a very different environment than what most parents were exposed to as a young person. Increased pressures, technology and other stressors are a greater influence than ever before on whether youth will use drugs and alcohol. As a parent, you can be an even bigger influence. Get to know your child's friends, and their friends' parents. Make yourself an expert on your youth's life and what is happening in his or her life. Start talking and keep talking!

If you are looking to be a positive influence with the youth in your community, feel free to check out a Logan County ATOD Task Force meeting. Meetings are the first Friday of the month at noon at the Logan County Department of Public Health. For further information about the task force, contact Kristi Lessen at 217-732-5066.

[Text from file received from Camille Springer, Chestnut Health Systems]

(Part 1: April is Alcohol Awareness Month)