The summer flew by, and it’s nearly time for school to start. Juggling work, schedules and back-to-school shopping can be stressful on a parent. But what about your children?
For kids, a new school year can bring the stress of new teachers, new friends and new influences. Peer pressure is always a concern and parents need to be aware of what their children are being exposed to.
A national study released last week by Partnership for Drug-Free Kids announced an increase in teen use of synthetic hGH, a drug that mimics the muscle building effects of steroids for athletic performances. Many teens use hGH because of easy access and the pressures that come with performing to win. Parents also need to be aware of hGH and other available drugs such as marijuana, prescription drugs and ecstasy/MDMA.
In Arizona, the average age of first time drug use is 13 years old. 90% of drug addictions start in the teen years. So on your checklist for back-to-school tasks, include planning a session to sit down and have a conversation with your child about what they know and have heard about, and how to make smart decisions to start of the new school year on a positive note!
