Community Prevention Services
Kick Underage Drinking Campaign
Parents Who Host…..Lose the Most
"Don’t be a party to teenage drinking, it’s against the
law." |
 |
Underage drinking is a major factor in the two
leading causes of teenage deaths: car accidents and fatal injuries.
“Open House Party” Law Alabama Code 13-11-10.1, makes it illegal for an
adult to provide alcohol to minors in their residence or allow parties
to take place when they are aware that alcohol is being consumed by
minors.
Tips for Safe Parties
-
Do not allow
teens to leave the party and come back
-
During the
party, ‘be around’, you do need to be visible
-
Make an
invitation list. Do not have an open house party
-
Make sure there are a few chaperones at your
party
-
Set clear rules
Being a parent is not always an easy job. What teens
do versus what parents know are often two different things. The same is
true for drugs and alcohol.
Here are a few ideas to get parents up-to-speed on what you need
to know:
- Ask questions
- Be more involved
- Be prepared
- Make clear rules
- Develop refusal skills
- Be honest
- Be firm
- Start an ongoing conversation
- Learn to listen
- Talk about the risks
- Use teachable moments
- Address peer pressure
 You want your teen
to be healthy and drug-free so be absolutely clear with your young
person that you don't want them using drugs or alcohol, ever, anywhere.
Don't leave room for interpretation. And talk often about the dangers
and results of underage drinking and drug use.
Signs and Symptoms of Drug Use
There are many
physical and behavioral signs that can indicate drug use. Each drug has
its own unique manifestations but here are some general indications that
a person is using drugs:
Psychological signals
- keeping secrets from family and friends
- Loss of interest in hobbies, sports, and other favorite
activities
- Problems with schoolwork, such as slipping grades or absences
- Changes in friendships, such as hanging out only with friends
who use drugs
- Withdrawal from family members
- Stealing or selling belongings to be able to afford drugs
- Anxiety, anger, or depression
- Mood swings
Physical signals
- Changes in sleeping habits
- Feeling shaky or sick when trying to stop
- Changes in eating habits, including weight loss or gain
- Careless about personal grooming
- Red or glassy eyes
- Sniffles or runny nose
Prevention Events for 2010-2011
Parents Encouraging Change Meetings and Activities
Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) activities
SADD Fundraisers
Community Service Projects
“Prevention for Life” Afterschool Program at Montevallo Middle
School
“Prevention for Life” Summer Camp at University Baptist Church..
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For more information about prevention events
please contact:
CSMHC Drug Prevention
Services
Prevention Coordinator
Zina Cartwell BS, CPM
Email:
zcartwell@chiltonshelby.org
Office: 205-668-4308
Parents Who Host, Lose the Most: Don’t be a party to teenage drinking™
is
a registered trademark of Drug-Free Action Alliance. |
