WHEN CHILDREN USE DRUGS, almost anything can happen. Some children can experiment with drugs and then quit using them. Other children may continue using drugs socially for years with seemingly few or no negative effects. Still other children who try drugs only once have bad, even dangerous reactions. Too many children grow dependent on drugs and become addicted. Their lives change forever because they "need" drugs to feel "normal." A growing number of children even die from drug-related circumstances.
WHEN CHILDREN USE DRUGS, they do so for many reasons. Children experiment with drugs to experience the "high" they have heard about. Children also use drugs because of peer pressure in order to "fit in" with their friends. Children often copy the drug using behaviors of adults. Many parents and other adults set a poor example with their use or abuse of alcohol or other drugs. Some children use drugs as a way to avoid or forget their problems. Getting "stoned" offers a temporary escape from life's harsh realities.
WHEN CHILDREN USE DRUGS, they are taking a risk. The use of drugs can progress to addiction. Experimental and social use can lead to dependency and chronic abuse. Factors such as current mental state, emotional stability and physical tolerance can vary the effects. Furthermore, the ingredients in many "street" drugs are potentially dangerous. Combining drugs also complicates the risk.
WHEN CHILDRN USE DRUGS, many areas of life can be affected. Family relationships can be strained. School performance can suffer. Sports and other activities can be dropped. Work habits and the capacity to handle responsibility can slacken. The child can withdraw from people and social interaction. Crime, delinquency and other deviant behaviors can emerge. The "need" for drugs can become all-consuming. The negative effects of drugs can seriously impair the child's ability to cope with life.
WHEN CHILDREN USE DRUGS raises a serious social issue we all must face. Drugs are available to nearly every child. Some children never try drugs, or only use them once. Other children use drugs sparingly; but a growing number of children regularly abuse drugs, "hooked" on potentially dangerous chemicals and substances. It is our duty as concerned parents, professionals and citizens to protect children from using drugs and to prevent drug abuse.
WHEN CHILDREN USE DRUGS is an educational guide to understanding and identifying drug use and abuse. This publication includes information about why children use and abuse drugs. It describes the types of drugs and outlines the major stages of drug involvement. Lists display the possible behavioral, emotional and physical effects on children. A list of agencies and services to contact about drug use and abuse also is included. It is the purpose of this publication to make you more knowledgeable about what may happen WHEN CHILDREN USE DRUGS.
