Substance abuse prevention

Hear From the Expert Feature Article

Dear Expert,

What do I say when my daughter says: "Everyone's drinking and smoking! What's the big deal?"

- A Parent

Dear Parent,

This is a common misperception that young people have. It can be a dangerous assumption if it justifies their using drugs and alcohol. For example, according to our last SALT survey that includes a measure of 30 day use of drugs and alcohol, more than 60% of our High School students reported being alcohol and drug free for that time period. This statistic has remained consistent over many years.

Tell your daughter that even if her perception were true, you would not want her to drink or drug. Here is a list or reasons why:

• It is dangerous to use alcohol and drugs. There are multiple negative consequences to using including death, being a victim of a sexual assault, driving or being a passenger of a drunk driver, falling, psychological distress, memory loss, disruption of brain development, and drug/alcohol abuse.
• It is illegal for teens to use drugs and alcohol and there are legal consequences that affect your life now and in the future.
• Doing drugs and/or alcohol can mask depression, anxiety, anger issues, and ADHD. This can interfere with your brain chemicals that effect mood; causing confusion, anxiety, depression, and possibly dependence. None of this solves the initial problems.
• Drugs and alcohol use can make people unmotivated and you could lose sight of your goals and dreams. People who use tend to find it difficult to stay committed to school and extra curricular activities.
• Our communities are small and if you begin to use drugs and alcohol, students and their parents will know about it and many will judge you. We live in communities where your future boss and colleagues, in-laws, and college professors live.
• These years will pass very quickly. There are a lot of opportunities to have a fun and fulfilled life. Live your life clear headed and be present. You owe it to yourself to experience a life free of drugs and alcohol and all the baggage that they bring.

There are many resources available in our communities that can help you navigate these issues with your kids. Please contact your Student Assistance Counselors in your schools for help.

For any questions or comments, please call the expert (Sarah Laidler, MA, LMHC, Licensed Student Assistance Counselor, Narragansett High School, 401-792-9400 Ext. 4023, or email Sarah) and mention the Hear From the Expert article at Be In The Know RI.

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