1 Introduction A MESSAGE TO PARENTS FROM DR. TURRISI AND MADD Being a parent is intensely rewarding, but also deeply challenging. Despite a common misconception that as children
We created this handbook based on the best information available to help parents and caring adults talk to teens about alcohol and cannabis use, medication misuse, and the dangers of impaired driving. This handbook will improve how you and your teen relate to each other and can help you protect your teen. Since each family is different, you will likely relate to some sections of this handbook better than others. That’s ok! Not all families are the same, and we respect those differences. After reviewing the entire handbook, use the parts that are helpful to you and your family. We urge you not to underestimate how dangerous alcohol, cannabis, and impaired driving are for teens. By following the handbook’s suggestions, you can help equip your teen to make smarter, safer choices.
1 in 3 teens combine alcohol with other drugs
enter high school their friends become all-important and parental influence weakens, research shows that parents are still the most important source of information for older adolescents and young adults. Further, our research shows that parents: 1. ARE MOTIVATED to talk with their children and teens. 2. ARE WILLING to learn new ways to reach out to their teens. 3. DO MAKE A DIFFERENCE when it comes to reducing risky adolescent behavior! Too many teens die or suffer life-altering consequences from drinking underage. In addition, young people under 21 are over-represented in both alcohol-impaired driving and passenger fatalities.
Studies show that 1 in 3 teens combine alcohol use with other drugs (e.g., cannabis, nicotine and other stimulants) and experience 2 to 3 times more consequences on those occasions! All of these harms and tragedies are 100% preventable.
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