Ellen Campbell -Grizzle

It is summer time, our young people are not in school and so they have time on their hands. At this time of year, parents must be more vigilant and make sure that their children are fully occupied.

As parents, you should know that young people are always trying out new things that bring excitement to their lives. Skillful drug pushers know how to exploit this situation and lay in wait at the places where young people frequent for fun and relaxation. A favourite ploy of the pushers is to give young people the impression that everyone is doing this or that drug. "Why not take a try?" is their sales pitch.

Many teens are tempted by the excitement or escape that such drugs seem to offer. Also, many yearn to belong and to be accepted. Parents need to learn the facts about drugs so that they can engage in conversations with their children about the dangers of drug abuse.

Teenage myths about drug abuse

Some teenagers believe that drugs will help them think better, be more popular, more active or become better athletes. Others are curious and believe one 'hit' will not hurt. A few of them use drugs to perk themselves up so that they can get more attention from their circle of friends. Increasingly, studies show that many Jamaican young people are using drugs to relieve stress and depression.

Talk to your children about drugs

You do not want your child to become a drug statistic. Onesound piece of advice is to talk openly, honestly and frequently with your children. Make sure that your answers explain why, and don't just end with 'because I said so'. Let your children understand that addictive drugs may feel good at first but they can ultimately do a lot of harm to the body and brain. In fact, abuse of drugs will impair judgement, leading to engagement in other forms of risky behaviours. Teens who drink are more likely to get involved in dangerous driving under the influence of alcohol or have unprotected sex.

Parents should monitor their teenagers during the long summer break to reduce their exposure to illicit drugs.

Watch for the warning signs

Some warning signs that your child may be using drugs are:

Changes in mood or behaviour

Constant fatigue

Shifts in relationships and friends

Presence of drug paraphernalia including pen barrels, matches and room odorisers

Lowered academic performance

Dramatic shifts in eating and sleeping patterns

The addiction spiral

We know that drug use does not solve problems. When the drug wears off, the feelings and problems remain. The temptation is to use the drug one more time to recapture the euphoria. However, the first feeling is elusive and, with every attempt, addiction increases and young lives may be destroyed. This process can begin in one single moment of idleness and boredom.

Parental control is key

Parents need to take responsibility for monitoring the type of activities in which their children engage during their spare time. Work on building a strong parent-child relationship. Be a good role model; practise the drug-free life that you preach and fill some of your child's moments with family fun.

Get your child into a summer camp where they can engage in healthy, safe and supervised activities May you and your children have a drug-free summer!