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Confusing messages being presented by popular culture, media, proponents of “medical” marijuana, and political campaigns to legalize all marijuana use, perpetuate the FALSE notion that marijuana is harmless. Marijuana and other illicit drugs are addictive and unsafe – especially for use by young people. Marijuana contains chemicals that change how the brain works. The science, […]

High school graduation is an important milestone in a young person’s life, and the season is often marked with parties, outings, and other celebrations. During this time there are plenty of opportunities where teens may contemplate taking risks, especially drinking and drug use. At graduation time, teens may feel more pressure to celebrate by partying […]

6 Tips to Create a Safe Prom and High-School Graduation Season for Your Teen     Here are 6 tips for parents to help keep their teen safe and make this season one to remember for all the right reasons. Set curfews:  Teen car crashes and deaths increase exponentially late at night. Know where your teen is, […]

When teens drink, alcohol affects their brains in the short-term – but repeated drinking can also impact it down the road, especially as their brains grow and develop. Short-Term Consequences of Intoxication (being “drunk”): An intoxicated youth has a harder time making good decisions. A youth is less aware that his/her behavior may be inappropriate […]

The Adolescent Brain    “Don’t you trust me?” your child asks. When it comes to decision making about the use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, it’s not just about trust. It’s about understanding adolescent brain development. There is a reason so many of our teens and preteens behave as if they are immortal and […]

Protect Children from Prescription Stimulant Abuse: Stimulant medications including amphetamines (e.g., Adderall) and methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin and Concerta) are often prescribed to treat children, adolescents, or adults diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Prescription stimulants have a calming and “focusing” effect on individuals with ADHD. They are prescribed to patients for daily use, and come […]

Drinking alcohol undoubtedly is a part of American culture, as are conversations between parents and children about its risks and potential benefits. However, information about alcohol can seem contradictory. Alcohol affects people differently at different stages of life—small amounts may have health benefits for certain adults, but for children and adolescents, alcohol can interfere with […]