May 12th, 2008 by Nina Thompson, ARNP
A recent report reveals that some teens are using drugs to relieve depression, when in fact, marijuana use is known to worsen the problem. Using marijuana increases the risk of developing mental disorders by 40 percent, and teens who smoke pot at least once a month over a yearlong period are three times more likely to have suicidal thoughts than nonusers.
In this report from the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, during this past year, two million teens felt depressed at some point during the past year, and depressed teens are more than twice as likely as non-depressed teens to self-medicate with marijuana and other illicit drugs. They are also more than twice as likely as their peers to abuse or become dependent on these drugs.
Overall, marijuana use among teens has decreased 25 percent since 2001. This is down to about 2.3 million kids who used pot at least once a month.
via Office of National Drug Control Policy, May 9, 2008
February 22nd, 2008 by Nina Thompson, ARNP
According to a recent study, parents are the main reason for kids avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and drugs. In a questionnaire, reasons cited include the parents’ positive influence and also potential parental disappointment. This study underlines the importance of communication in the home. Parents need to build a strong relationship with their kids and talk to them about substance abuse. Fourth grade is a good time to start, but the earlier the better!
via Nat’l Crime Prevention Council
June 30th, 2007 by Nina Thompson, ARNP
Since the 1950s, dextromethorphan has been the primary cough suppressant ingredient in over-the-counter cold and cough medicines. When taken according to directions, dextromethorphan produces few adverse side effects and has a long history of safety. But recently, an alarming number of teens are abusing this medicine and causing serious damage to their bodies. It is often readily available in the home medicine cabinet, and they think because it’s found in over-the-counter medicines that it must be harmless. Taken in recreational doses, far exceeding recommended doses, dextromethoraphan can cause serious, irreversible organ damage, even death. Unfortunately many parents have no idea this is happening.
via The Partnership for a Drug-Free America
