Substance abuse counselors and some teens are warning Bloomington, Illinois, parents about an increase in teen drug and alcohol abuse during summer months. According to Alan Markwood, prevention projects coordinator for Chestnut Health Systems, "summer is a time of high initiation [into drugs and alcohol] ... teens have more time on their hands." Counselors warn parents that more leisure time may lead to more alcohol consumption, "pharm parties," and smoking marijuana for some teens. Lisa Fesnot, a local counselor, stated that warning signs of substance abuse vary with the substance, however universal signs include significant behavior changes, avoiding family activities, changes in friends, and breaking curfew.
(Source: www.pantagraph.com)
Labels: teen substance abuse, summer
Posted By: Aspen Education Group