by Marquita Bedway, Ph.D. & Kara Brooklier, Ph.D.
Q. Is there an adolescent alcohol and substance use problem in our community?
A. Yes, teen alcohol and substance use is a national problem that, unfortunately, impacts our community. Many local professionals express concern about high risk alcohol and substance use behaviors in our youth. Frequently, teens disclose that they and their friends consume large quantities of alcohol every weekend. Some also report having easy access to prescription medications and illegal drugs. The messages we often hear are that "everyone is doing it" and "it is not a big deal."
However, we have strong data that it is a big deal. Alcohol damages the frontal area of the teen brain, the part of the brain that helps them to control impulses and think about consequences. The damage is most severe in cases of binge drinking (four or more drinks), which is the typical drinking pattern for adolescents. Alcohol and substance use are also associated with increases in sexual and physical victimization, suicide, and medical complications (i.e., alcohol poisoning).
This issue is further complicated by our inability to predict who is at risk of addiction. The data converge that: earlier use is associated with an increased likelihood of subsequent problems, including addiction; availability of alcohol and drugs is a key factor in frequency of use; and; heredity makes one more vulnerable to addiction. Both environment and genetics are involved in adolescent development. We cannot control our children's genes . However, there are ways to address these concerns as a community and collectively we have a responsibility to our teens.
First, do not accept that "everyone is doing it." This is inaccurate and conveys that we believe their use is acceptable, which may result in increased use as teens try to "push the limits." Have discussions about the dangers of binge drinking and substance use. Further, make substances more difficult to obtain, increase supervision, and provide outlets for fun that do not involve alcohol or substances. Finally, we can model for our teens that mind and mood altering substances are not necessary to have a good time.
To learn more, go to http://www.niaaa.nih.gov, or http//www.nida.nih.gov.
Marquita Bedway, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist who practices in Grosse Pointe. She is an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences at Wayne State University.
Kara Brooklier, Ph.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist who practices in the Grosse Pointe and Rochester Hills communities. She is the Director of Autism Training at Children's Hospital of Michigan.
Both are also affiliated with Wayne State University / Children's Hospital of Michigan and can be reached at 313.640.8765.
Save The Date for this valuable presentation offered by The Family Center:
Are Your Kids at Risk? Teen Alcohol and Drug Trends
Tuesday, September 29, 2009, 7pm - No Fee
Location: Yeoman Hall, St. Michael's Episcopal Church (20475 Sunningdale Park, Grosse Pointe Woods)
RSVP: 313.432.3832 or info@familycenterweb.org
Please email questions to info@familycenterweb.org
To volunteer or contribute, visit www.familycenterweb.org or call 313.432.3832.
20090 Morningside Drive, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236
