Teens Launch Texting Service to Help Peers Say 'No'

Teens in Medford, Mass., have launched a service which utilizes text-messaging to help peers say "no" to using drugs and alcohol. The program, dubbed "I'm Allergic to Stupid Decisions," is being implemented by a local youth organization call Teens Against Drinking and Drugs (TADD).

Teens in need of assistance send a text to a special number. Within minutes, they will receive a reply with one of three pieces of information: an excuse to help them refuse a drink, a fact on underage drinking, or a sharp retort that suggests an alternative to drugs or alcohol.

Approximately 130 teens have utilized the service so far, receiving over 1,000 texts, according to the program advisor, Gisela Rots. Rots commented, "We want people to know that most youths DON'T drink, and that sometimes they just need to know there are more youth like them. We hope that youth will begin using it at anytime they need it."

(Source: www.boston.com)

Labels: teen substance abuse

posted by Aspen Education Group @ 8:53 AM