Frequently Asked Questions





What can parents do to help combat the drug problem?

There are no cure-alls or comprehensive lists; however here are a few suggestions: Children must be taught right from wrong and must learn to take responsibility for their actions. These standards should be demonstrated by parents. Parents should talk to their children about drugs, alcohol, and peer pressure. Parents should take an interest and be involved in their children's activities. If a parent sees signs of drug use, take action! Contact an agency that can help with the problem of drug use.


What can students do to combat the drug problem?

Students must first learn the harmful effects of drugs and drug use. They must learn to resist the peer pressure to try drugs. When a student learns and understands the dangers of drugs they can help others avoid drugs. They should encourage students using drugs to seek help. Drug sales should be reported to parents and the school principal.


Why must a person be 21 years old to drink?

Simply because IT'S THE LAW!

When a person drinks alcohol, he or she must do so responsibly. Being 21 years old gives a person more time to mature and learn about alcohol and to understand the consequences. By waiting it gives a person time to develop physically and mentally. According to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, alcohol effects children differently than adults and alcohol can prevent learning. Also, alcohol related traffic fatalities decreased in New Jersey when that state raised its drinking age from 18 to 21.


Is it all right for my parents to give me a "sip" of beer or wine?

You must remember that your parents are trying to raise you to the best of their ability. If they occasionally allow you to "sip" beer or wine they do so with some good reason. It is important for you and your parents to communicate and discuss these reasons. Discuss the responsibilities and consequences associated with alcohol consumption. It is the decision of your parents if it is "all right" for you to "sip" beer or wine.


Are non-alcoholic beverages safe?

Non-alcoholic beverages do not contain alcohol however because they mimic alcoholic beverages they can be stepping stones for the "real thing". If a teenager starts drinking nonalcoholic beverages, drinking the "real thing" may not seem like a big deal.


Who is considered an Alcoholic?

If a person is unable to control his or her drinking for ANY length of time, they may be an alcoholic. However, YOU are the only person who can answer the question.


How does a teenager know if he or she has a problem with alcohol?

Alcoholics Anonymous has prepared a 12 question survey for teens, the 12 questions are:
  • Do you drink because you have problems? To relax?
  • Do you drink when you get mad at other people, friends, or parents?
  • Do you prefer to drink alone, rather than with others?
  • Are your grades starting to slip? Are you goofing off on your job?
  • Did you ever try to stop drinking or drink less and fail?
  • Have you begun to drink in the morning, before work or school?
  • Do you gulp your drinks?
  • Do you ever have memory loss due to your drinking?
  • Do you lie about drinking?
  • Do you ever get in trouble when you are drinking?
  • Do you get drunk when you drink, even when you don't mean to?
  • Do you think it's cool to be able to hold your liquor?
They say if you answer "yes" to any of the 12 questions it is time to take a serious look at your drinking habits and what it might be doing to you.


Why beer is considered a drug?

To answer your question we must know the meaning of some of the words. First, beer is a beverage that contains alcohol. Alcohol slows down your nervous system that controls your thinking and feelings. Second, a drug is anything other than food that affects the way your mind and body works. The alcohol in beer will slow down our thinking and affect the way you act. This is why beer is considered a drug.


Why do kids smoke?

When I ask this question to students, the most common answers are "They want to be cool" or "They want to look older." But I wanted to know if smoking will make someone look older or cool. I ask the students to picture someone who is younger than they are, smoking. Then I ask the students to give me a one word description of this picture. These answers usually include "dumb" or "silly," no one describes a younger person smoking as "cool." Adults I speak with think young people smoking looks "foolish." Neither students nor adults are impressed by young people smoking.


What are the side effects of smoking cigarettes?

The common side effects of smoking cigarettes are mouth, throat, and lung cancer; heart disease, and emphysema. However, If you know what cigarettes are made of it would prevent you from even consider using them.


What are the effects of smoking marijuana?

Smoking marijuana can affect your body with both short term and long term effects. Some short term effects are memory loss, increased heart rate, and paranoia. Some long term effects include risk of various types of cancer, psychological dependence, and increased risk of infertility.


What does "Crack" do?

Crack is a form of cocaine. The method of using crack causes the drug to reach your brain quicker which can make you act in an irrational manner. It also raises your blood pressure and heart hate. Crack is highly addictive and the user is interested in only one thing, more crack. It can cause brain damage, stroke, or DEATH.


What is Methamphetamine?

Methamphetamine is an artificial chemical powder that is abused and is dangerous because it causes paranoia, violence and erratic behavior. This drug is highly addictive and toxic


What is the easiest way to resist drugs?

Tell yourself it's not worth it!
I wish I could give you that one most simple answer however it is all dependent on you and your environment. Who do you hang around? How do your friends and parents react? I can give some tips that are helpful. Get involved in positive activities, the activities you choose will occupy your time constructively, giving you a good support system with quality friends and role models. Avoid situations where drugs are being used. Be Confident! You can handle situations on your own without the use of drugs.


What is the most dangerous drug?

There are three drugs we consider to be the most dangerous. They are alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana. We also refer to these drugs as the "Gateway Drugs" because they can lead to the use of other drugs. If you avoid these drugs, you will avoid other drugs.


What are some characteristics of children that are at risk for destructive and addictive behavior?

There is no concise list. However, some characteristics are:
  • They have low self esteem
  • They do not feel important in their families
  • They are easily talked into doing things
  • They have few interests
  • They avoid responsibility
These risk factors, or others, do not mean a child is destined to be a user or abuser. Nor does it mean that children who do not exhibit these characteristics will avoid problems. It just means that these children may be a greater risk and should find a positive role model and group to hang around.


What can parents do to keep their children drug free?

Communicate, educate, and set a good example for them. When 144 sixth grade students were asked about drugs and drug education, 83% of the students stated that the biggest influence not to use drugs comes from their parents and police. 89% of the students feel the information they receive from their parents and police is accurate. Some parents may not realize how large a role they have in drug education.