Bradley Hospital Parenting Guide:
Alcohol and Drug Abuse
Parents Have a Responsibility to Understand the Potential Problems
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If you are concerned or worried, call a mental health
professional for an assessment. Bradley Hospital is especially
well qualified, with experts in children's mental and emotional
health.
Call anytime
401-434-3400
ext. 364
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We must be aware that tobacco and alcohol are drugs and should
be taken just as seriously as marijuana, cocaine and LSD. In fact,
tobacco, alcohol and marijuana are all considered "gateway"
drugs; that is, a person who has experience with them is more likely
to try other drugs.
Many children have had their first drink by the time they are six
years-old. The following statistics about high school seniors should
indicate the scope of the problem and the importance of being aware:
- More than 90% have tried alcohol.
- 65% have had a drink in the past month.
- More than half of all boys and a third of all girls have some
experience with alcohol by the time they are 12 years-old.
- 20% smoke daily; 30% smoke sometime during the month.
- Up to 20% also use chewing tobacco or snuff.
- More than half have tried marijuana; about 25% have used it
recently.
- Cocaine and crack use is a major problem; more than 13% of adolescents
have tried cocaine and 4% have used crack. It is very accessible.
Reasons kids turn to alcohol and drugs
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