1. How do you know drugs are bad if you’ve never even tried them?
Quite simply, we know that drugs are bad because of the overwhelming proof provided by scientific evidence as well as the personal testimonies of people who have used them. One study after another has proved that the chemicals that are contained in drugs have numerous devastating effects on the human body which include, but are not limited to, inability to think clearly, addiction, and significantly increased risk of cancer, heart attack and heart problems. If scientific evidence is not convincing enough, the personal stories from those who have engaged in drug use tell us about the personal and emotional damages that come along with using drugs. Drug use can and does destroy families, tear apart friendships, and devastate one’s chances to accomplish his or her goals in life.
[another way to look at it: How do you know that murder is bad if you have never killed someone? Doesn’t that question sound ridiculous? There is no one who would deny that murder is bad, but notice that you don’t have to be a murderer to attest to that. It’s just common sense. Likewise, you don’t have to try drugs or participate in drug use in order to see that drugs are bad.]
2. Should I go to a party if I know that alcohol is going to be involved?
If you are under the age of 21, it is unwise for you to attend a party where you know alcohol will be involved for a few good reasons. First of all, even if you make up your mind that you are not going to drink, the temptation is there and will be strong. Because the opinions of their peers are placed at such a high level of importance for teens, peer pressure to drink can be overwhelming even for those with the strongest conviction of their morals. The second thing to consider is that legally you can still get in trouble if the police get involved—even if you were not drinking. When in doubt, it is usually better to play it safe and not attend.
3. My dad is an alcoholic, and I don’t know what to do about it. What would you do if you were me?
Our first suggestion is to talk to your dad and express your concern to him (make sure that he is completely sober whenever you decide to bring it up in conversation otherwise he may not receive your concern in a very logical or positive manner). Many times, talking to an alcoholic parent and encouraging them to get help works because it serves as a reminder to them that their addiction affects more than just themselves. However sometimes, for whatever reason, this approach doesn’t work. In such cases, it is vital to remember that you are not responsible for your parents’ actions. If they refuse to get help for themselves, then you cannot force them to do so. It would also be a good idea to consider joining a support group for family members of alcoholics so that you will have others to support you as you learn how to deal with living with your dad’s addiction. Many groups exist that are free! Al-Anon is one such support group, but there are others (your school counselor may be able to help you find a similar group of other students at your school). Whatever the case, though, it is important that no matter how everything turns out you remain safe!!
4. Do you think it’s okay to be friends with people who drink?
It is certainly okay to be friends with people who drink, however it is very important that they understand and respect your decision not to drink. If they are truly your friends, then they will not pressure you to drink. Be wary of those who claim to be “friends”, but still pressure you to engage in harmful activities such as drinking.
5. What’s the harm in just experimenting with drugs a little?
The harm is that experimenting with drugs can easily, and usually does, turn into an addiction. Be careful not to fall in to the trap of thinking, “Oh, I’ll just give it a try,” or “It couldn’t hurt just once.” You have to remember that every drug addict or drug abuser started with just one try. Some drugs, like cocaine and meth, can make you addicted from the very first time you use them. Other, more powerful, drugs can even kill you the first time you use them. Experimenting with drugs is dangerous and usually develops into a serious problem. Take into consideration the fact that drugs start killing brain cells and effecting other vital organs the moment they enter your body. Protect yourself and your body by making a commitment to stay away from drugs entirely.
6. All my friends chew tobacco, and I’m afraid they’ll think I’m a loser if I don’t chew too. What should I do?
Ask yourself this important question: In 20 years will it really matter that these friends thought I was “cool”? If they are true friends, then they will respect your decision not to chew and will value your friendship just the same. Chances are they only chew tobacco because they want to fit in, too. Your stand against chewing may be all it takes to help them make the decision to stop. If you are still feeling tempted to chew, remember that chewing tobacco, although smokeless, is still full of nicotine which is a very addictive substance that leads to gum, throat, and jaw cancer among other health problems.
7. It seems like, in high school, the only way to be popular is to drink. Is that true?
Absolutely not! It is not true in any way that drinking is the only way to be “popular” in high school. In fact, if you look at all of the people who do drink in high school, you will find that not all of them are popular, so the myth that drinking increases your popularity is busted. Being “popular” is really more about being comfortable in your own skin and having confidence in yourself (not to be confused with arrogance). Others are drawn to those who carry themselves with poise and confidence because it invites them to learn to be comfortable with and confident in themselves as well. There is also a strong correlation between self-confidence and participation in school activities. When you are comfortable with who you are, you feel more free to express yourself through activities that revolve around your interests and what you love. Whether that be through sports, music, academics, or art, “popularity” comes naturally when you invest your time and energy in activities that reinforce your positive self-image.
8. How do I help a friend who is over their head in partying and drugs?
To begin with, tell them you are concerned. Remember not to be condemning—be caring and loving instead. It could be that they are partying so much because something is going on with them emotionally and they don’t know of a more constructive way to deal with that burden. Maybe they think none of their friends will like them if they don’t drink. Whatever the case may be, your friend needs to know you care and are concerned. If your friend becomes defensive, don’t fight back—just let them know you care and are concerned for their safety. However, if things continue to get worse, you may have to ask an adult for help in order to keep your friend safe.