Drugs Drugs and Youth A Parents Guide ADA

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rugs an ou

Drugs and YouthN I N F O R M A T I O N G U I D E F O R P A R E N T S A N D E D U C A T O R Sourth Edition

Produced by the

Crime and Violence Prevention CenterCalifornia Attorney Generals Office

andBureau of Narcotic EnforcementCalifornia Department of Justice

Bill Lockyerttorney General

1988, revised 1991, 1999, 2002

This publication was produced by the California Department of Justice, supported by 2000CKWX0216, awarded by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing

erv ces ( ). e opn ons, n ngs an concusons or recommen atons expresse n t s pu cat on are t ose o t e aut or(s) an o not necessar y represent t e o c a pos tonr policies of the U.S. Department of Justice.


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For more information, please write to:California Attorney Generals OfficeCrime and Violence Prevention CenterPost Office Box 944255Sacramento, CA 94244-2550Or visit us online at:http://ag.ca.gov/cvpchttp://www.safestate.orghttp://www.stopdrugs.org


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Gateway Dr

IntroductionBeing a parent or teacher today is a difficult job, but so

is being a kid. Children today are faced with tough deci-sions at increasingly younger, more vulnerable ages. Ac-cording to a national survey, many 4th graders are awarethat drugs are easy to buy. A quarter of them say cigarettesand beer are easy to get, and 11 percent say the sameabout marijuana. It also found that more than 2 percent of4th graders drink beer and wine coolers, and use inhalantsmonthly and 4th graders are about nine years old!1

As they get older, the pressure on our kids to use drugsincreases this is confirmed by findings from the Califor-nia Student Survey, a statewide survey of studentssubstance use and other risky behaviors, conducted everytwo years by the Attorney Generals Office since 1985.

There is hope, however. Long-term trends in Californiastudents use of most drugs and alcohol show an overalldecline since the mid-1990s.

While progress has been made, we can do more to helpour youth develop the skills and knowledge needed to make

good, healthy choices to not use alcohol, drugs or tobacco. You dont need to be an expert on drugs or their effects tomake a difference in your childrens lives. Studies haveshown that parents, by modeling responsible behavior andnurturing their childrens assets, can raise drug-free youth.

First, familiarize yourself with the information in thisbooklet. You can develop an understanding of the majordrug groups and their effects, and find out about some drugprevention strategies that you can put into practice in yourhome and school.

his booklet begins with a discussion of the most com-monly used drugs called Gateway Drugs alcohol, to-bacco and marijuana, followed by a description of othermajor drug groups and examples of popular drugs in thosecategories. At the conclusion of this booklet are sectionson the stages of addiction, risk factors associated with drugabuse, assets that help youth make healthy choices, andmost importantly what you can do, and currentresources for more information.

he Crime and Violence Prevention Center has alsoproduced an educational video, Drugs and Youth TheChallenge, designed to assist parents and teachers torecognize and understand the drug problem and what theycan do.

he Drugs and Youthvideo and this publication arecompanions. Each can stand alone, but parents, teachersand communities will benefit more by reading this publi-cation, viewing the video and then discussing how they willmeet the challenge to help our children resist the pressure

to use alcohol and other drugs.Other videos and accompanying publications producedby the center are also available for parents, teachers andeducators to order and view:Meth the Great Deceiverand here Meth Goes, Violence and Destruction Follow!

1. National Parents Resource Institute for Drug Education (PRIDE) 1998 sur vey, Frequency of use of drugs by U.S.students in grades 4-6.

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Table of ContentsIntroduction....................................................................... i

ateway Drugs................................................................1Alcohol...................................................................... 1Tobacco.....................................................................3Marijuana 4

ther Drugs...................................................................... 6annabis................................................................... 6

Stimulants 8lub Drugs...............................................................14

Depressants............................................................. 17Narcotics................................................................. 23Hallucinogens......................................................... 25Inhalants 27Anabolic Steroids....................................................28

Stages of Addiction 9Prevention Information ................................................. 3What You Can Do........................................................... 7Resiliency and Assets.................................................... 8Resources....................................................................... 9Resource Centers.......................................................... 3Acknowledgments........................................................ 4Drug Identification Chart.............................................. 19

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eth

Gateway Drugs(Alcohol, Tobacco & Marijuana)

triesbecodictsthese

is country is alcohol-relatedhes.lifornia Student Survey

t among high school stu-long-term trend indicatesificant number drink and

Gateway drugs are those drugspeople are first exposed to and ex-periment with. Traditional gatewaydrugs are alcohol, cigarettes andmarijuana.

The significance of gatewaydrugs is that most people with a drugdependency began their cycle of ad-diction by experimenting with a gate-way drug. While not everyone who

ALCOHOLMost of you know what alcohol

looks like, how it is packaged andhow it makes you feel. Perhapssomething you didnt know is that al-cohol is a drug. Its scientific name isethyl alcoholand it is classified as a

depressant, the same drug class as abarbiturate or tranquilizer. Alcohol isunique because it is legal for adults tobuy and drink and is widely acceptedin our culture. In fact, alcohol is themost popular drug among youth andadults in our country today.

Alcohol is also one of the mostdeadly drugs available to our youth.A leading cause of death among

ing themselves and others

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Alcohol also causes heart dis-ease, high blood pressure, liver dam-age, brain damage and many otherhealth problems.

When alcohol is absorbed intothe blood stream, it acts on the

central nervous system like a de-pressant, affecting speech, visionand coordination. Physical effectsof alcohol depend on many fac-tors, including the amount of alcoholconsumed over time, emotional stateand body weight of the drinker, con-centration of the drink and amountof food in the stomach at the time ofdrinking.

Smaller doses of alcohol maycause euphoria and a mild relaxedfeeling. Intoxication occurs whenhigher doses are taken. Responsesto higher doses of alcohol are var-ied: some people feel more outgoingand giddy, while others will feeldepressed, aggressive or hostile.Physical responses to increaseddoses of alcohol include altered per-ception, impaired judgment, loss ofcoordination, staggered walk, blurredvision, bloodshot eyes, slurredspeech, dizziness, nausea and vom-iting. An overdose of alcohol cancause unconsciousness, respiratoryfailure and death.

Alcohol is an addictive drug. Themedical term for this addiction iscalled alcoholism. Research sug-gests that alcoholism may be agenetic predisposition, and that achild of an alcoholic parent runsmany times the risk of becomingan alcoholic. Alcoholism strikes allage groups; about ten percent of thepopulation will develop the disease.

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TOBACCOThere appears to be good news

in California regarding students' useof tobacco various state studies

confirm that cigarette smoking isdeclining among youth.National trends echo California

findings; federal studies indicate asimilar drop in current cigaretteuse among youths throughout thecountry.

Tobacco is used in many forms,including cigarettes, cigars, pipetobacco, chewing tobacco and

nuff. Cigarettes are the most com-mon type of tobacco used by teens,followed by chewing tobacco andnuff. Studies of school-age children

indicate that initiation of daily smok-ing (not occasional use) is highestamong junior high school students,about ages 12-14.

Many harmful ingredients intobacco, such as nicotine, carbonmonoxide and hydrogen cyanide areabsorbed into the body through thelungs. Nicotine, the addictive sub-stance in tobacco, is so toxic that it

has been used as an insecticide.obacco acts both as a stimulant

and a depressant. A beginningsmoker will experience euphoria,lightheadedness, giddiness, dizzi-ness, elevated heartbeat and respi-ration rates, and a tingling sensationin the hands and feet. A chronicsmoker will suffer from a diminishedsense of smell and taste.

ommon forms of tobacco areigarettes, chewing tobacco and snuff.

Not everyone who begins smok-ing will be addicted. However, whenusers give up smoking, withdrawalsymptoms such as restlessness,nervousness, sleeplessness, sweat-ing, reduced heart rate and bloodpressure, inability to concentrate,compulsive eating, headaches andirritability can occur. These physicalwithdrawal symptoms last for aboutone to three weeks.

Medical problems associated withsmoking tobacco are normally theresult of long-term use. Some of themany health hazards of tobacco areheart disease, cancer, lung disease,obstructive pulmonary and bronchialdisease, gum and jawbone deterio-ration, gastrointestinal disease, eat-ing disorders and allergic reactions.Use of smokeless tobacco, such aschewing tobacco and snuff, can beas dangerous as smoking, causingmouth lesions and cancer.


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stash box

w

MARIJUANAFollowing alcohol, marijuana is

the second most popular drug withyouth. It consists of the leaves,

flowers, stems and seeds of theannabis plant, which are dried andhopped into small amounts. Mari-

juana can also be found as Sinsemi-lia, the potent flowering tops of thefemale marijuana plant.

Commonly referred to as grass,pot, weed Acapulco Gold, ganjaandmoke, marijuana is usually sold andtored in small plastic bags, alu-

minum foil or small rolled cigarettes.Marijuana is usually smoked in hand-rolled cigarettes called o nts, andhas a strong, pungent odor whenmoked. Once the marijuana ciga-

rette is partially smoked, it is oftenheld by a small clip called a roachclip. (Roach clips are made fromitems, such as tweezers or electri-al clips.) The leaves can also be

moked in small wooden pipes orwater-filled pipes called bongs. Andfinally, marijuana can also be blend-ed into food, then cooked and eaten,most often in brownies.

Paraphernalia associated withmarijuana includes pipes, bongs, roll-ing papers, plastic bags and roachlips; eye drops and breath freshen-

ers are used to cover up signs of

Marijuana is smoked in small pipes orrolled into cigarettes which are some-times held by roach clips.

Marijuana is sold in plastic bags or in hand rolled cigarettes calledjoints.

drug use. To hide the drug, somemay use tash boxes(decorativeboxes designed to conceal and storemarijuana) or containers manufac-tured to look like soda cans or otherommercial products.

In low doses, marijuana can in-duce restlessness, a dreamy state ofrelaxation, red or bloodshot eyes andincreased appetite. Stronger dosesan cause shifting sensory images,

rapidly fluctuating emotions, a loss ofelf-identity, fantasies, hallucinations

or image distortions.

Common ways to store and concealmarijuana.

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MORE ON GATEWAYDRUGS ...

Other gateway drugs that havecome on the scene are glue and

other inhalants. They are widelyabused by children and teens be-cause of the inhalants' low cost andavailability.

Children learn about the use ofgateway drugs from television, mov-ies, music, advertising and even fromparents themselves.

According to researchers at theUniversity of Washington in Seattle,

parents who involve their children inthe use of one of these drugs in-crease the childs risk of becomingan abuser of alcohol or other drugs.

For example, parents may involvetheir children in their smoking by say-ing, Jimmy, please light my ciga-rette. Or parents may involve theirchildren in their drinking by asking,Linda, would you please get Daddy

a beer from the refrigerator?Parents who involve their children

in their own use of drugs in this man-ner are setting an example that says,Its okay to smoke or drink because

I do it.

Gateway drugs are most often alcohol,tobacco and marijuana.

Do not underestimate the impactof gateway drugs. Examine yourown use of these drugs to see if youare modeling drug use by involvingyour child your kids are watchingyou.


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Gateway Dr

Other DrugsCANNABIS

Marijuana, discussed in theGateway Drugssection, along withhashish and hashish oil are forms ofcannabis, a tall, green, leafy plant.

he ingredient responsible for thepsychoactive effect (the "high") inannabis is etrahydrocannabinol

(THC). The amount of THC foundin marijuana, hash or hash oil deter-mines the potency of the drug.

Hashish, a dark, brittle or gummysubstance, is often sold in aluminum foil

packets.

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HASHISHHashish or hashis an extract

of marijuana formed into a gummysubstance ranging in color from goldto brown to black, or it is formed intoa thick, dark oil called hash oil. Be-

cause hashish contains a higher con-centration of THC than marijuana,hash and hash oil are more potentand are sold and used in smallerquantities. Hash is most often pack-aged in aluminum foil, and hash oil isstored in small vials.

As with marijuana, both hash andhash oil are smoked in pipes, butthey may also be mixed with tobaccoin cigarettes or pipes. The parapher-nalia associated with hash and hashoil is the same as for marijuana:pipes, bongs, rolling papers, roachclips and stash boxes or containers.

Hash and hash oil also have avery strong, pungent odor whensmoked. The effects of hash andhash oil are similar to marijuana, butcan be more intense because of itshigher concentration of THC.

Hashish is smoked in bongs and in small,unusually shaped pipes.

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STIMULANTSYoung people use stimulants to

feel stronger, more energetic andmore decisive. As with other drugs,

some stimulants are legally pre-scribed by doctors for various rea-sons, such as for weight loss, hyper-activity or narcolepsy, a rare disease.

Examples of stimulants are am-phetamines, methamphetamines,Ritalin and Preludin Included inthis category are cocaine and itsderivatives rock cocaine or crack,a deadly and highly addictive form of

cocaine. Also included is ice, a trans-lucent crystal that is a smokable formof methamphetamine.

If your teenager is using stimu-lants, at first he or she may seemexhilarated and hyperactive, will havedilated pupils, and may have little orno appetite. Other symptoms mayinclude irritability, anxiety, appre-hension and insomnia. Cocaine and

crack produce a high for a shorterperiod of time than other stimulants.However, as with all drugs, the highsvary according to the strength of thedrug and the rate of administration.

Large doses of stimulants cancause repetitive grinding of the teeth,weight loss, excessive touching andpicking of the face and paranoia. Anoverdose can result in dizziness,tremors, agitation, panic, hostility,

abdominal cramps, chest pains andpalpitations. Extreme overdoses canresult in cardiac arrest, strokes ordeath.

fter extended use, withdrawalsymptoms may occur if drug useis stopped. Withdrawal signs areprofound depression, apathy, fatigue,long periods of sleep, a lingering im-pairment of perception, disorientation

and anxiety.he most commonly abused

stimulants are cocaine, crack or rockcocaine and methamphetamine.

Powdered cocaine and its derivatives,rock and crack.

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blo sno snor

COCAINECocaine is produced as a white

chunky powder and is often calledcoke, blow white, snow, snort, flake,nose candy hubbaor cane. It issold most often in aluminum foil,

plastic or paper packets or small vi-als. Cocaine is usually chopped intoa fine powder with a razor blade on asmall mirror or some other hard sur-face, arranged into small rows calledlines, then quickly inhaled or nortedthrough the nose with a short strawor rolled-up paper money. It can alsobe injected into the blood stream.

Paraphernalia associated withinhaling cocaine include mirrors,razor blades, straws and rolled papermoney, while paraphernalia asso-ciated with injecting the drug includesyringes, needles, spoons, and belts,bandanas or surgical tubing used toconstrict the veins. Scales are usedby dealers to weigh the drug. Some-times substances such as bakingsoda or mannitol are used to dilute orcutthe drug in order to increase thequantity of cocaine for sale.

The high from a typical inhaleddose of cocaine lasts for about20 minutes. During this time yourteenager may appear very alert,confident, energetic and stimulated.Physical signs include dilated eyes,a runny nose and little or no appetite.

he high from cocaine is followedby profound depression, an intenseesire for another dose, mental

atigue, restlessness and irritability.n overdose of cocaine can cause

extreme agitation, respiratory failure,

heart failure or death.

Cocaine paraphernalia, including scalesdealers use to weigh the drug, and mir-rors and razor blades used to prepare

ocaine powder is sold in plastic bags, the drug before inhaling.lass vials or in small cellophane or pa-

per packets.


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RACKCrack and rock cocaine are forms

of cocaine that are extremely addic-tive and very dangerous. Crack androck cocaine are nearly identical, sothe term crackwill be used for both.

Crack has quickly become a majorproblem in this country because it isinexpensive, readily available andhighly addictive. Crack comes in

white to tan pellets and is sold insmall vials. Crack is smoked in glasspipes and makes a crackling soundas it is smoked. Paraphernalia as-sociated with crack includes glasspipes called base pipes, homemade

pipes and small vials used to storethe drug.

Examples of two homemade rock orrack pipes.

Crack is absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs in just afew seconds. If your teenager is us-ing crack, he or she will temporarilyappear euphoric, extremely alert andhighly energetic. Other symptoms

include dilated pupils, loss of ap-petite, elevated heart rate, elevatedrespiration rate and higher body tem-perature. The high lasts only a fewminutes, leaving an intense depres-sion called a crashand an immediatedesire for more crack. The severeaddiction associated with crackstems not only from a desire for theeuphoria of the high but a desire to

escape from the crash. Prolongeduse of crack can cause extreme irri-tability, depression, paranoia, convul-sions or death.

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METHAMPHETAMINE ANDAMPHETAMINES

Methamphetamine and amphet-amines are also highly addictive andangerous stimulants. Commonly

referred to as meth peedor crank,meth is sold in powder, pill andapsule forms that can be inhaled

through the nose, swallowed orinjected.

Methamphetamine is sold in pill or pow-der form and can be swallowed, inhaledor injected.

Like cocaine and crack, thephysical effects of methamphetamineand amphetamines are increasedalertness, euphoria, appetite loss,dilated pupils, elevated heart rate,increased respiration and elevated

body temperature.rolonged use can cause blurred

vision, dizziness, loss of coordina-tion and collapse. An overdose canresult in high blood pressure, fever,stroke and heart failure.

he most popular of the twodrugs is methamphetamine, com-monly called meth, speed, crank,crystalor crystal methor in its smok-

able form ice, glassor crystal. Inappearance, meth can be found ina powdery substance in any color.Meth can be swallowed, snorted, in-jected or smoked. It is sold in smallplastic or paper packets or plasticbags. Paraphernalia associated withinhaling the drug are razor blades,mirrors, straws and rolled dollar bills.The paraphernalia associated with

injecting the drug include syringes,spoons, surgical tubing, bandanas ora belt used to constrict the vein.

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cr

CEIce is the translucent crystal,

mokable form of meth. It is alsoommonly called glassor crystaland,

like other stimulants, is highly addic-ive. In terms of molecular structure,

ice and methamphetamine are theame.

The use of ice results in a longer,more intense high and an enhancedand more rapid onset of the negativeeffects of other forms of metham-phetamine.

Similar in appearance to rockandy or rock salt, ice is sold in clear,

heat sealed cellophane packets. Itis smoked by using a bong, aone-hamber pipe, where the ice is heat-

ed until it turns to a gas, and theninhaled by the user.

If your teenager is using ice, he orhe may experience increased alert-

ness, euphoria, appetite loss, dilatedpupils, elevated heart rate, increasedrespiration and elevated body tem-perature.

Prolonged use can cause blurredision, dizziness, loss of coordina-ion, collapse and toxic psychosis.rolonged use of ice will also causeamage to the body's organs, par-

ticularly the lungs, liver and kidneys.eavy short-term or prolonged usean also cause delusional states or

Ice, a pocket micro-torch and glasspipe used to smoke the drug.

even a toxic psychosis similar to par-anoid schizophrenia. Acute depres-sion and fatigue may result when theuse of ice is stopped. An overdosecan result in high blood pressure,fever, stroke, heart failure and death.

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CLANDESTINE DRUG LABSClandestine labs or clan labs

produce illegal drugs and are aserious problem in California.

llegal drugs, especially meth, canbe manufactured quickly and cheaply

by clan lab operators who set uptheir equipment anywhere.

eople operating these labs arenot aware of, or indifferent to, thedangers posed by toxic chemicalsinvolved in drug production.

xplosion, fire and exposureto toxic chemicals are the mostcommon hazards for the clan laboperators, their families and theirneighbors. A clan lab contains amixture of volatile chemicals and car-cinogens, that are carelessly handledby untrained people who oftentimeswork in a poorly ventilated room.

nother hazard of clan labs is thewaste produced by the illegal pro-duction. For example, toxic chemicalwaste and garbage from the man-ufacture of meth are often dumpedanywhere in our waterways, alonghighways, in fields, down waterdrains or near schools.

hese discarded chemicals andequipment are hazardous to theenvironment and our health. Theycontaminate the soil and water, andpoison wildlife. It is estimated that

meth production leaves five poundsof waste for every pound of methproduced.

Clan labs exist in rural, suburbanand urban areas. They have beenfound in homes, motels, vehicles,

houseboats, storage units and inagricultural areas.

Signs of a clan lab may include:strong or unusual chemical odors;lab equipment (glass tubes, beakers,heating devices); reinforced windowsor doors; chemical cans or drums inthe yard; or automobile or foot trafficat all hours.

ooking equipment in a clan lab canonsist of beakers, flasks and heating

lements.

If you suspect a clan lab is in yourcommunity, call your sheriff or policeto notify them of your suspicions.Call 911 if you think you've beenexposed to toxic chemicals.

Methamphetamine can be produced

nyplace.

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CLUB DRUGSClub or Rave drugs have become

increasingly widespread. Many ofthese drugs are used at clubs or

underground parties. Some drugsused in club or rave settings, suchas methamphetamine and LSD, arediscussed in other sections of thisbooklet. Other popular Club drugsare briefly discussed below:

Methylenedioxymethamphet-amine (MDMA), also known asEcstas or X, is a popular drug ofchoice among high school age youth

and young adults. Despite the com-mon belief that MDMA is a safedrug, it has disturbing risks. Ecstasyleaves users with a sense of warmthand empathy for others while actingas a stimulant. A few days after use,people often experience severe de-pression. Users under the influenceof Ecstasy often dance for hours,sometimes the entire night.

One of the most dangerous sideeffects of using Ecstasy is a reduc-tion in the bodys ability to regulatebody temperature. Users often failto seek medical attention believingthat drinking water is all they needto do to be safe from an abnormalMDMA-induced rise in body tempera-ture. The problem is exacerbatedby long hours of dancing in a warm

environment. Most MDMA relatedoverdoses and deaths are associ-ated with heat stroke-like symptomsor traffic accidents from impairmentwhile under the influence of MDMA.

Ecstasyusehasanotherprob-lemthatiscommonwithmostillicitdrugs.Usersdonotalwaysgetthesubstancetheythinktheyaregetting.Itiscommonforothersubstances,suchasmethamphetamine,metham-phetaminelacedwithLSD,Dextro-meth- orphan (DXM), Ketamine, orPara- methoxyamphetamine (PMA),to be sold as Ecstasy.

MDMA (ecstasy) is sold in pill form and in

variety of colors and logo designs.

MDMA users may inhale commercialproducts in an attempt to increase the

ffect of the drug. Users may also blowvapors into their eyes for the same reason.

Research conducted by the Na-tional Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)has associated MDMA use withlong-term damage to serotonin-ontaining neurons in the brain.

Serotonin is known to have a signifi-cant role in regulating emotion,memory, sleep, pain and higher-order cognitive processes. A 1999

NIDA news release indicates thatcstasy (MDMA) use is likely toause memory impairment. MDMA

use is also known to lead to severeepression.

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ta

Syr

Jaw clenching and teeth grinding iscommon with MDMA use. Users often biteon pacifiers, candy or chewable toys inan effort to protect teeth.

Paramethoxyamphetamine (PMA)is a powerful stimulant and hal-lucinogen that costs less to makethan Ecstasy. PMA is often sold asEcstasy and may be similar in ap-pearance. PMA is more toxic than

MDMA and the drug is known tohave caused several deaths in recentyears.

Ketamine, called Special KVi-tamin Kor Kitkat, is an animal tran-quilizer. It causes hallucinations,visual distortions and a lost senseof time. Ketamine is considered arape drug due to the drugs anes-

thetic properties. Although milder

and of shorter duration, the effects ofKetamine are similar to PCP.

Ketamine may be in a white pow-er that looks like cocaine or a liquid

or tablet form. It is usually snorted,but, sometimes is sprinkled on to-bacco or marijuana and smoked. Therug is occasionally ingested in arink.

Dextromethorphan with street

names like DXMSyrupand oboDosesis a cough suppressant that isometimes sold as MDMA to unsus-

pecting users. It is also voluntarilyabused by some people. In largeuantities, Dextromethorphan canause hallucinations. Using Dex-

tromethorphan with other drugs oralcohol is dangerous and amplifiesthe effect of the drug.

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Roofi

Gamma-hydroxy-butyrate (GHB)is commonly used by youth at par-ties, concerts and other events.Street names include Liquid XorLiquid Ecstasy. GHB is marketedillicitly as an aid to sleep or for body-

building, and is available in powder,tablet or liquid forms. GHB, even insmall amounts, can be deadly, espe-cially when mixed with alcohol. Thedrug causes physical dependencewith prolonged use. Addicted usersshould contact a licensed medicaldoctor for treatment.

GHB was tested in the 1960sas a potential anesthetic and sleep

aid, but it had adverse side effects.Partygoers now abuse the drug forits sedative nature or for effectsthat can be similar to low doses ofalcohol, which aid in loosening theusers inhibitions. Effects are mildeuphoria, relaxation, loss of coordi-nation or drowsiness, which can lastfrom 3-5 hours. Overdose can re-sult in vomiting, coma, seizures and

death. Other drugs are sometimestaken with GHB to counteract thesedation - the mix can be extremelydangerous to the user.

GHB is referred to as a rapedrug because it is colorless andodorless, and can be slipped intothe drinks of unsuspecting victims.GHB has a salty taste. At partiesand public locations, drinks should

GHB is transported in a variety ofcontainers, including soda or water

bottles.

be monitored at all times. Any drinkthat does not taste right should beavoided. Medical assistance shouldbe sought immediately if you or yourchild believe that a drink has beeningested that may have been altered

with drugs, or if an assault has oc-curred.

Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol), calledRoofiesor 2, is considered a pred-atory rape drug. Usually the drug isfound in pill form. Dissolved, it is col-orless, odorless, and tasteless andit is frequently slipped into drinks.When combined with alcohol, the vic-tim suffers amnesia while under the

influence of the drug. Flunitrazepamis illegal in the United States, but itis a popular sleep aid in Mexico andother countries. Flunitrazepam is aBenzodiazedine class drug. Thesedrugs are highly addictive with thepotential for serious medical com-plications. A 2 milligram dose ofFlunitrazepam is equivalent to 10milligrams of Valium.

Flunitrazepam produces seda-tive-hypnotic effects including musclerelaxation. Combined with alcohol,Flunitrazepam creates an intensivealcohol-like feeling that lasts 6 to 12hours. As with all depressant drugs,Flunitrazepam is deadly when mixedwith alcohol or other depressantdrugs.

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DEPRESSANTSDepressants are often medi-

cally prescribed by doctors to treatanxiety, tension, insomnia, muscle

spasms and irritability. However,depressants are also abused for theirintoxicating effects. Users obtaindepressants by illegal prescriptions,stealing or buying the drugs throughthe illicit market.

Drugs included in this classi-fication are chloral hydrate, barbi-turates, glutethimide, methaqualone(Quaaludes , benzodiazepines and

anti-anxiety or sedative drugs suchas Valium, Miltown and Equanil.Depressants are produced in pill orcapsule form.

If your teenager is abusing de-pressants, he or she may appear tobe in a state of intoxication much likethat of alcohol, with impaired judg-ment, inebriation, slurred speech andloss of motor coordination. Other

symptoms include a weak and rapidpulse, slow or rapid but shallowbreathing, and cold and clammy skin.

As with narcotics, the body ac-quires a need for increased doses ofdepressants in order to achieve thesame high. If your teenager is un-aware of an increased dependencyon depressants, he or she may

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de

increase the intake to dangerous,toxic levels in order to achieve thesame intoxicating effects. Mixingdepressants with alcohol is a particu-larly dangerous combination that cancause an overdose and death.

Symptoms of withdrawal fromdepressants can be extreme. After24 hours without the drug, symptomssuch as anxiety and agitation maydevelop. Depending on the potencyof the drug, withdrawal will peakbetween two to eight days, caus-ing appetite loss, nausea, vomiting,abdominal cramps, increased heartrate and excessive sweating. Some

severe symptoms of withdrawal maybe delirium, convulsions and, insome cases, death.

Be aware that you may haveprescription depressants in yourmedicine cabinet, such as Librium,Xanax, Valium, Dalmane andDoriden, that have the potential tobe abused by your child or teen.

BARBITURATESBarbiturates were once among

the most widely used depressants,prescribed by doctors to inducerelaxation and sleep. Like otherdepressants, barbiturates are sold

on the illicit market or are legallyprescribed to addicts by physicians.

The three most abused barbi-turates are Nembutal, Seconaland Amytal, which are capsules orpills that may be red, blue, yellow orwhite. Their street names includedowners barbs, red devils, bluedevilsand yellows. They are usu-ally sold in plastic bags or pill bottles.Barbiturates are taken orally andtheir effects may last up to six hours.

The physical effects of barbi-turates include intoxication muchlike that of alcohol, slurred speechand disorientation. An overdose cancause dilated pupils, shallow breath-ing, clammy skin, weak and rapidpulse, coma and death.

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Alcohol

Tobacc Marijuana

Hashish

CocaineCrack Cocaine

Amphetamine Methamphetamine

Barbiturates

Heroin

LS

PCP

Inhalant

Liquid.

Dried leaf, varying texture and color.Tobacco-like, dried flowers and leaves on

stems, often with seeds.

Gold, brown or black gummysubstance compressed into cakes.White crystal-like powder or chunks.White to tan pellets or chunks.

White to tan powder, capsules.Ice: rock salt crystals.

Capsules or pills, may be red,blue, yellow or white.White to brown powder or

black tar-like substance.Clear liquid, colored pills orwhite powder, soaked into paper.

Clear liquid, white to brownpowder or a gummy mass.

Vapors.

Depressants

StimulantsCannabis

Cannabis

Stimulants

Stimulants

Depressants

Opiates

Hallucinogens

Hallucinogens

Inhalants

* PCP and Methamphetamine are also known as Crystal.

Booze, liquor, beer, wine,product brand names

igarette, chew, snuffPot, grass, weed, reefer, ganja,Acapulco Gold, joints, smoke.

Hash or hash oil.

oke, blow, snort, flake, nose candy,cane; crack, rock, hubba.

Speed, uppers, pep pills,exedrine; meth, crank, crystal*, crystal

meth, speed, ice, glass.Downers, barbs, red devils, blue devils,yellows.Smack, mud, tar, brown, Chinawhite, black tar, Mexican brown.Acid, LSD, microdot,white lightning, blotter acid.

Angel dust, supergrass, KJ, rocket fuel,mbalming fluid, killerweed, sherms,

crystal.*Laughing gas, bullet, poppers,snappers, rush, bolt, locker room.

Bottles and cans.

Commercial packaging.Plastic bags, foil, hand-rolled cigarettes.

Small chunks or balls wrapped in foil.Oil sold in small vials.Small foil, paper packets; small clay, clear

plastic or glass vials.

Pill bottles, plastic bags, paper packets orsmall foil packets.

Pill bottles, plastic bags, prescription bottles.

Small foil or paper packets, toy balloons,cellophane wrappers.Blotter paper squares, gelatin squares, pillsin plastic bags, vials, small paper squares.

Tablets and capsules or clear liquid applied

to marijuana or cigarettes.

Spray cans, glue containers, otherhousehold products.

Crime and Violence Prevention CenterCalifornia Attorney Generals OfficeDrug GroupDrug PackagingAppearanceStreet Names

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Crime and Violence Prevention CenterCalifornia Attorney Generals OfficeParaphernalia Possible EffectsMethod of UseDrug

Alcohol Swallowed. Empty bottles, containers, Euphoria, mood swings (relaxed or aggressive alternately); impaired judgment,fake IDs. oordination, vision and perception; staggered walk. Increased drinking may

ause dizziness, nausea and vomiting.Tobacco

Smoked, chewed, inhaled.

Matches, lighters.

Euphoria, lightheadedness, impaired sense of smell/taste; heart disease; cancer.

Marijuana Smoked in hand-rolled Cigarette papers, roach clips, Low doses may induce restlessness, sense of well-being, and euphoria. Physical

cigarettesor in pipes or odd shaped pipes. igns include red eyes, dry mouth, increased appetite. Higher doses may causeeaten in baked foods. reamlike state, acute sensations (e.g. of smell and sight) and paranoia.

Hashish Smoked, eaten or added to Small odd shaped pipes. Same as for marijuana; however, higher doses can result in hallucinations, anxietycigarettes. nd paranoia.

Cocaine Inhaled through the nose, Straws, razor blades, rolle Euphoria, increased alertness, feelings of confidence and well-being. Can causeCrack Cocaine injectedin veins** or smoked dollar bills, mirrors, glass pipes, ilated pupils, runny nose; elevated heart rate, respiration and body temperature.

in small pipes. syringe, spoons, belts. verdose can cause extreme agitation, convulsions, respiratory failure or death.Amphetamines Taken orally in pill form, inhale Hypodermic needles; belts, Increased alertness and heart rate, euphoria, appetite loss and dilated pupils. Methamphetamine through the nose or injected** tubes to tie off veins; straws, Meth use can damage organs, particularly lungs, liver and kidneys. Chronic use

Ice is smoked in a glass pipe. razor blades; glass pipes. an also lead to depression, paranoia, psychosis or violent behavior.Barbiturates Taken orally. Pill bottles. Drunken behavior, slurred speech and disorientation. Overdose can cause dilated

pupils, shallow respiration, clammy skin, weak and rapid pulse, coma or death.Heroin Injected** into the veins, inhaled Hypodermic needles, spoons, Euphoria, drowsiness, constricted pupils, nausea and possible vomiting. Overdose

through the nose or smoked. belts, cotton balls. an result in slow and shallow breathing, clammy skin, convulsions, coma or death.LSD Taken orally or licked off paper. Small vials. Hallucinations, distorted sense of sight, taste and smell. Dilated pupils, high blood

pressure and fever. "Bad trips" can result in confusion, panic, paranoia, anxiety, lossf control and psychosis.

PC Taken orally or smoked. Dark cigarettes. Similar to LSD, but with rapid, involuntary eye movement and exaggerated walk.User may experience extraordinary strength, a sense of invulnerability and image

istortion.Inhalants Inhaled through the nose. Products that emit toxic odors, Hallucinations, sneezing, nosebleeds, fatigue, loss of coordination, lower body

fumes; cloth rag or plastic bag. temperature or blood pressure, confusion, psychosis, nausea or death.

** The possible effects of injection include an increased risk of AIDS, hepatitis or other blood diseases.20


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Hallucinogen

Crime and Violence Prevention CenterCalifornia Attorney Generals Office

HB Depressants G, Liquid X, Easy Lay, G Caps, Clear liquid, white powder, ater bottles, mouthwash bottles,Grievous Bodily Harm, Georgia Home tablets or capsule ther small containersBoy,Scoop, Salty Water

BL Industrial Solvent Revivarant G, Blue Nitro, Gamma G, Liquid, powder or capsules Sold illicitly as a dietary

Renewtrient, Dream On upplement

Methcathinone Stimulant Cat White salt appearance Plastic bags or vials.

Drug Drug Group PackagingStreet Names Appearance

MDMA Stimulant/ E, Ecstasy, X, XTC Tablet or capsule. Shape and color vary Small bottles, plastic bagshallucinogenic often with a logo stamped on the tablet

Ketamine Depressant

with HallucinogenicEffects

K, Special K, Kit Kat,Vitamin K

Liquid, white powder, tablets ials

PMA Stimulant/

Hallucinogen

Double-Stack, Death Tablets, capsule, powder. Shape and colorvary. Often with a logo stamped on the

tablet

Usually sold as MDMA

Flunitrazepam

Rohypnol)

Depressant Roofies, Ruffies, Mexican Valium,

R-2, Rope, Circles

White round pills, will be replaced by dark

green pills

Individual tablets,blister packs.

DXM Cough

SuppresantSyrup or Robo Dose Powder, pills similar to MDMA in design or

a thick liquid in various colors

Similar to MDMA, vials

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Crime and Violence Prevention CenterCalifornia Attorney Generals Offic Method of Use Possible EffectsDrug Paraphernalia

GHB rally May be marketed as health ornergy supplement, may be

found in any small container

apable of holding liquids

Euphoric and hallucinatory states. May produce drowsiness, dizziness, nausea,

unconsciousness, seizures, severe respiratory depression, coma and death. Even

more dangerous when combined with alcohol due the possibility of an amplified effect

from the combination of the two drugs.GB rally Changes to GHB in the body with similar effects.Methcathinone Most often snorted.

May be snorted or injected

intravenouslyAbundant energy, hyperactivity, may cause extended wakefulness and loss of appetite.May cause insomnia, weight loss, dehydration, sweating, stomach pains, pounding

heart, nose bleeds and body aches.Toxic levels may produce convulsions, paranoia,and hallucinations.

MDMA rally, occasionally snorte Pacifiers or other chew-ble materials due to teethrinding by users.Vapor rub

products (used to heighten

the effects of the drug)

Euphoric feelings with increased energy. Neurotoxic with long-lasting damage to thenervous system. Danger of elevated body temperature with kidney and cardiovascularsystem failure and death.

Ketamine Snorted, ingested with drinks,or smoked with marijuana

Effects similar to PCP with the visual effects of LSD. May affect the senses, judgment,

and coordination for 18 to 24 hours.PM Usually taken orally. Rarely

inhaled or injecte Physical effects of PMA include racing pulse, high blood pressure, increased and

difficulty breathing, high fever, erratic eye movements, muscle spasm, and vomiting.At high doses, convulsions, coma, and death can result.

Flunitrazepam rally Decreased blood pressure, drowsiness, visual disturbance, dizziness, confusion,

slurred speech, lack of coordination and gastrointestinal problems. Highly dangerous

when combined with alcohol due to the possibility of an amplified effect from the

combination of the two drugs.

22

DX rally Baby bottles Possible visual and auditory hallucinations. May appear clumsy, restless, or lethargic.Users may be in a stupor with a suppressed respiratory system.The effects anddangerousness of the drug are increased and potentally fatal when combined with

alcohol or MDMA.


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NARCOTICSWell known for their medical use

of relieving severe pain, narcotics arecommonly abused drugs because oftheir euphoric effect and highlyaddictive nature. Most of the drugsin this category are administeredorally or through intramuscular injec-tion and can be legally obtainedunder medical supervision. Butnarcotics such as heroin, opium,morphine and codeine are frequentlysold on the illicit market to addicts.Lesser known are the narcoticshydromorphone, meperidine andmethadone.

When narcotics are regularlyused, the body eventually demandsmore of the drug to achieve the samehigh which is known as developinga drug tolerance.

Withdrawal symptoms such aswatery eyes, runny nose, yawningand perspiration will develop within

six to eight hours following the lastuse of the drug. Within 48 to 72hours, more severe withdrawalsymptoms may develop, includingrestlessness, irritability, appetite loss,tremors, stomach cramps, diarrheaand chills alternating with excessivesweating. It may take one to twoweeks for the body to return to normal.

HEROINThe most dangerous and ad-

dictive narcotic is heroin. Whilereceiving less publicity today thannewer, more popular drugs, heroincontinues to be a major problem in

this country. Not only is it extremelyaddictive and dangerous, but as with

Heroin comes in a white to brown powderor a dark tar-like substance and is sold

in a variety of packaging.

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blac m

blac

ocaine and methamphetamine,addicts often resort to crimes suchas burglary, grand theft, robbery orprostitution to support their habits.

Sometimes called black tarmudmackChina whiteor Mexican

brown, heroin is derived from opiumpoppies. In its powder form, it mayrange in color from white to a verydark brown. The most popular formof heroin is a dark tar-like substancealled black tar, which is sold inmall foil or cellophane packets or inmall toy balloons.

The most common use of heroinis by injection, called mainlining or

hooting. Paraphernalia for injectingheroin include hypodermic needles,mall cotton balls used to strain the

drug, and water and spoons or bottleaps used for cookingor liquefying

the heroin.In its powder form, heroin can be

inhaled through the nose or smoked.Paraphernalia for inhaling or smok-ing heroin includes razor blades,

traws, rolled dollar bills and pipes.The high from the drug usually

lasts from four to six hours. If yourhild or teen is under the influence

of heroin, he or she may have con-stricted pupils, droopy eyelids, de-pression, apathy, decreased physicalactivity and nausea.

A frequent user may nod or ap-pear sleepy, and repeatedly scratch

Black tar heroin and paraphernalia toinject and store the drug.

or touch the face and nose. Largerdoses of heroin may induce sleep,vomiting and shallow breathing. Anoverdose can cause slow and shallowbreathing, clammy skin, convulsions,oma or death.

In addition, there are chemicallymanufactured drugs, sometimesfalsely represented as yntheticheroin. The most prevalent of thesemanufactured drugs is fentanyl ci-trate, also called China white whichis many times more powerful thanheroin and has caused a numberof deaths among addicts. Fentanylitrate is used in the same manner as

heroin.

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b

HALLUCINOGENSHallucinogens cause distortions

of reality, particularly with sight, smelland touch. Hallucinogens are LSD,mescaline, peyote, psilocybin mush-

rooms and phencyclidine (PCP).These drugs are normally swallowed,but PCP is usually smoked.

There is no evidence that hal-lucinogens cause a physical depen-dence. However, extended use mayresult in permanent brain damage.The most commonly abused halluci-nogens are LSD and PCP.

LSDLSD is an extremely powerful

hallucinogen, popular in the 1960s,and is becoming popular again. Itis an odorless, colorless chemicallymanufactured drug. Street names

or the drug include acid, blotter acid,microdotand white lightning, and itshigh is called a r p.

Because LSD is so potent, theosage needed for a trip is incrediblymall. A microscopic drop of LSDan be put on paper, small gelatinquares or any other absorbent

LSD comes in liquid form and is appliedo paper or pills and swallowed.

material, and then ingested by theuser. Anything that can be swal-lowed can be used as a carrier forthe drug.

he LSD's hallucinogenic effectlasts from 2 to 12 hours. During this

time, judgment is impaired, visualperception is distorted and hallu-cinations occur, in which the user'ssense of reality becomes highlydistorted.

hysical effects of LSD includedilated pupils, elevated body tem-perature, high blood pressure, hal-lucinations and a disoriented senseof direction, distance and time. Bad

trips can result in panic, paranoia,anxiety, loss of control, confusionand psychosis. If your child is un-der the influence of LSD, he or sheshould be closely supervised so noone gets hurt.

One possible side effect of LSDis called a ashback. For severalyears after taking the drug, thehallucinogenic effect of the drug may

reappear temporarily and withoutwarning.

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w embalm ng fl

PCPPhencyclidine, commonly known

as PCP, is the most dangerous ofthe hallucinogens. It is sold onthe streets under at least 50 othernames that reflect its range of bizarre

and volatile effects. Some namesare ange ust, upergrass, erweed, KJembalming fluid, rocketfueland herms.

In some areas of the country, itis called crystal(not to be confusedwith methamphetamine). PCP isometimes passed off as other drugsuch as mescaline, LSD, THC orocaine.

In its pure form, PCP is a white,rystalline powder that readily dis-

solves in water. Most PCP is manu-factured in makeshift laboratoriesontaining contaminants that cause

the drugs color to range from tanto brown and the consistency frompowder to a gummy mass. It is seenmost often in powder or liquid formand is commonly applied to dark

brown cigarettes or leafy materialsuch as parsley, mint, oregano, mari-

juana or tobacco and then smoked.hen in its liquid form, PCP is pack-

aged in small vials or other smalllass containers.

PCP is applied to cigarettes or marijuanaand smoked.

f your child is under the influence

of PCP, he or she may show many ofthe signs of LSD use, such as ap-pearing detached from reality or es-tranged from his or her surroundings.Other symptoms include rapid andinvoluntary eye movement, an ex-aggerated walk, numbness, slurredspeech, blocked speech and a lossof coordination.

PCP is unique because of itspower to produce psychosis indistin-uishable from schizophrenia. PCPan cause extraordinary strength, aense of invulnerability and extreme

image distortion. Users may become

violent, causing injury to themselvesor others. Although such extremepsychotic reactions are usually asso-iated with repeated use of the drug,

these reactions have been known tooccur in some cases after only oneose. As with LSD, if your child is

under the influence of PCP, he orhe should be closely supervised so

no one gets hurt.PCP episodes, or flashbacks,

may occur long after the drug has leftthe body.

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INHALANTSAnything that emits fumes or that

is in an aerosol form can be inhaledby your child or teen to producea high.There are many types ofinhalants, including nitrous oxide(laughing gas), amyl nitrite (poppers,snappers)andbutyl nitrite (rush, bolt,locker room, bullet, climax).

Also included in this group areaerosol sprays (spray paint andcleaning fluid) and hydrocarbons,such as gasoline, glue and paint thin-ner. In addition, fumes from manyhousehold products can be inhaled

to produce a high, such as lighterfluid, hair spray, whipped cream can-nisters, typewriter correction fluid,paint and nail polish remover.

The effects of inhalants on yourchilds body depend on which typeof inhalant has been taken. Sol-vents and aerosol sprays decreasethe heart and respiratory rates andimpair judgement. Amyl and butyl

nitrite cause rapid pulse, headachesand involuntary passing of urine orfeces.

Other immediate effects of in-halants include nausea, sneezing,coughing, nosebleeds, fatigue, lackof coordination and loss of appetite.Long-term use may result in weightloss, electrolyte imbalance, musclefatigue, hepatitis or brain hemor-

rhage.Repeated sniffing of concentratedvapors over time can permanentlydamage the user's nasal passages,lungs, nervous system and brain.

Deeply inhaling vapors or usinglarge amounts over a short periodof time may result in disorientation,violent behavior, unconsciousnessor death. High concentrations of

inhalants can cause suffocation bydisplacing the oxygen in the lungsor by depressing the central nervoussystem to the point that breathingstops.

Inhalant use is extremely danger-ous. Even first-time users can die.

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ANABOLIC STEROIDSAnabolic steroids are synthetic

ersions of the naturally occurringmale hormone testosterone. Com-monly called roids, auceorjuice,

anabolic steroids are available asablets to be taken orally or in an oil-based liquid that is usually injected inhe buttocks or thighs.

The effects are anabolic (muscle-building) and androgenic (masculine,i.e., aggressiveness, deep voice).Steroids are most often used byathletes seeking an edge over theompetition, while others may use

it for cosmetic reason to gain theperfect look. National survey re-

sults indicate that many adolescentsand young adults illegally use or haveused anabolic steroids.

Developed in the 1930s, anabolicteroids are used to treat rare dis-

eases in males whose bodies do notproduce enough testosterone, as wellas for conditions such as rare typesof anemia and kidney disease orinoperable breast cancer.

Because of serious side effects,anabolic steroids are prescribedby responsible doctors at the mini-mum dosage required to help theirpatients. Controlled by the Federal

ood and Drug Administration, theserugs are legally available only by

a doctors prescription. However, a

black market network of dealers ac-ounts for an estimated 80 percent

of the anabolic steroids used. Theblack market is supplied by illegallyiverted pharmaceutical products,ecret laboratories producing coun-

terfeits of those products or steroidsmuggled in from other countries.hese black market steroids are

often sold in gyms, locker rooms orhrough magazines and over thenternet.

The oral anabolic steroids con-tinue to be the most popular withathletes because of their greateranabolic or muscle-building effects.

rimarily water-based, oral anabolicteroids pose an even greater dangero the liver than the oil-based liquidorms. The oral anabolic steroidsinclude Anvar, Dianabol, Winstrol,Maxibolin, Halotestin and Androyd,and stay in the body up to 40 days.

The liquid forms commonly calledoils, which are intended for intra-muscular injection, include Bolas-

erone, Deca Durabolin, Durabolin,arabolan, Winstrol V and others.

Because they are fat-soluble, theyhave a longer reaction time thanhe orals and remain in the body formonths.

nabolic steroids are extremelyunpredictable. Different dosages ofdifferent types of anabolic steroidsinteracting with an individuals uniquebiochemistry cause widely differentand unpredictable results.

f your teenager is using anabolicsteroids, he or she may experience asudden increase in body weight andmuscular development, insomnia,irritability, aggressive combative be-havior, puffy face, severe acne, badbreath, a yellowing of the eyes andskin, premature hair loss, hyperac-tivity and exaggerated mood swingsthat include uncontrollable outbursts

of anger.Males may also experience tes-

ticular shrinkage and can developfemale breast tissue on the pectoralmuscles. Females may also expe-rience a deeper voice and decreasedbreast size. Continued use canresult in life-threatening situationsinvolving the liver, cardiovascularsystem and brain.

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Stages of Addiction

9

There are different ways oflooking at the progressive stagesof addiction. In this booklet, drugaddiction will be described in 3 pro-gressive stages: experimentation,occasional or regular use and depen-dency.

Not all children who try drugs willpass through every stage; and be-coming addicted to drugs does notgenerally happen overnight. Thereare, however, signs and symptomsof behavior and attitude that mayindicate if a problem is developing.

Although it is predictable that chil-dren will be exposed to alcohol andother drugs either at home, school,parties or other social events, notall children will try drugs. Accordingto the California Student Survey, asignificant number of students never

ExperimentationEach year in this country, children

begin experimenting with drugs atyounger ages. Substance abuse in-creases dramatically when studentsmove from elementary to middleschool.

3. PRIDEs 1998 survey.


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used alcohol or illicit drugs. How-ever, those who do experiment at ayoung age will have an increasedrisk of continued use in later years.

Occasional and Regular UseThis stage of addiction is impor-

tant because, during this period, theuser develops a pattern of drug useranging from occasional use atparties or other social events to

regular use on a weekly or morebasis. Occasional users may nevergo on to become regular users, but ifthey do, this is the stage when drugsand/or alcohol can become a routinepart of life.

At this stage you may noticeseveral changes in your childsroutine: he or she may have newfriends, may need or have more

money than usual, may eat more orless than normal and may changeleeping habits.The child may also

lose interest in school or hobbiesand his or her grades may begin torop. Many youngsters regularly

using drugs will lose interest inamily activities and may develop aninterest in the drug culture. Forexample, he or she may have drug-related T-shirts and posters, orubscribe to drug-oriented maga-ines. He or she may also becomeery defensive and deny using

alcohol or other drugs at all.

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DependencyIn this stage, the user becomes

addicted to one or more drugs. Theuser builds up a tolerance to thedrug or drugs and must maintain acertain level of use to remain

normal or get the desired high.Changes in your childs attitude, suchas belligerency or rebelliousness,poor physical conditioning and a lackof interest in his or her physicalappearance will become evident.

Depending on the particular drugbeing abused, eating and sleepinghabits will most likely change the

user may be getting either more orless sleep than normal and may loseappetite and body weight. Interest inthe drug culture may intensify and heor she may pull away from the family,spending more time alone or awayfrom home entirely.How To Get Help

If chemical dependency or alco-

holism is suspected or medicallydiagnosed, several sources of helpare available in your community.Investigate your alternatives; donot act hastily. Ideally, you shouldconsult a local professional or yourfamily physician who can refer youto a specific program or person whowill meet the needs of your familyand child. If you do not have a family

physician, contact a professional fora recommendation. A good place tolocate a professional is by looking inyour telephone directory under "Alco-holism" or "Drug Dependency."

Another approach would be to

contact your employers EmployeeAssistance Program (EAP) if this isavailable where you work. EAPs areprograms designed to help familieswith problems, such as chemicaldependency and alcoholism.

A number of factors may beimportant to consider when you areseeking professional counselingor treatment. First, find out if yourhealth insurance provides coveragefor treatment or recovery services.Chemical dependency or alcoholismis a medically diagnosed disease;as such, it is often covered by insur-ance companies. However, levels ofcoverage vary, so check your familyhealth insurance and its benefits.

If your health insurance does

not cover drug dependency or al-coholism or you do not have healthinsurance, there are alternatives.Most local communities have in-pa-tient or out-patient treatment centersfunded by the government andthe costs are based upon your abilityto pay. These programs are longerin duration than privately run pro-grams. Unfortunately, they often have

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Prevention InformationRISK FACTORS FORADOLESCENT DRUG ANDALCOHOL ABUSE

This section summarizes the riskfactors for adolescent drug abuse.The information is from researchconducted into the causes of drugabuse by Drs. J. David Hawkins and

Richard F. Catalano, the Center forSocial Welfare Research at the Uni-versity of Washington (UW).

These risk factors should beinterpreted in the same way as therisk factors for heart or lung disease.That is, if a child or family membershave one or more of the characteri-stics, it increases the childs chancesof developing a problem with alcohol

or drug use. However, having one ormore risk factors does not mean thatthe child will become a drug abuser,just that the risk is increased. Themore risk factors present, the greaterthe chance a child will have a prob-lem with drugs or alcohol.

The following material is takenfrom Preparing for the Drug (Free)Years: A Family Activity Book by

J. David Hawkins, Center for SocialWelfare Research, UW, 1986.Family History of Alcoholism

hen a family member hasabused alcohol, boys in particularhave a high risk for abusing alcoholthemselves. Boys with alcoholic fa-thers are up to nine times more likelyto abuse alcohol. This risk may bea result of biology and environment.On the biological side, there is evi-dence that some children of alcohol-ics have a genetic predispositionto alcoholism. On the environmentside, parents who are alcoholicsprovide powerful role model for theirchildren that is likely to influencetheir childrens behavior.Family Management Problems

To make good decisions abouttheir behavior, children need clearguidelines for acceptable and unac-ceptable behavior from their family.Children need to be taught basicskills, and they need to be providedwith consistent support and rewardsfor acceptable behavior as well as

consistent but moderate punishmentfor unacceptable behavior. Theyalso need to know that their parentscare enough to monitor their be-haviors so that rewards and punish-ments are applied fairly.

Children who grow up in homeswhere rules are not clearly statedand enforced have difficulty know-ing what is expected of them. Ifthey arent consistently rewardedfor doing good things, then childrendont know when they are doinggood things and arent made to feelthat their good behavior makes anydifference.

Similarly, if they arent consis-tently and moderately disciplinedfor doing bad things, then they dontexperience the security they need todevelop a sense of right and wrongand an ability to exercise their ownjudgment.

If their parents dont make aneffort to observe whether theyredoing good or bad things, hen anysystem of reward and punishmentbecomes less meaningful. Thesechildren have increased risk of

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developing problems with alcohol andother drugs.Parental Drug Use and Positive At-titudes Towards Drugs

lthough most of the data avail-

able on parental drug use comesfrom studies on the effects of alcohol,we know that parents attitudes andbehaviors related to drugs just liketheir attitudes and behaviors relatedto other issues, like religion andpolitics influence the attitudes andbehaviors of their children. Parentsare particularly likely to influence theirchildren when they involve their

children in their own drug-takingactivities.

or example, parents may asktheir child to get a beer from the re-frigerator or to light their cigarettes.Children who are drawn into theseactivities are more likely to seethemselves as future users. Theyremore likely to use drugs when theyreyoung and early experimentation

greatly increases the risk of troublewith drugs later.

arents attitudes about alcoholseem to influence their childrensattitudes about other drugs. A surveyconducted by UW researchers foundthat 9th graders whose parentsapproved of their drinking underparental supervision were more likely

to have used marijuana and to beusing marijuana at the time than werechildren of parents who disapprovedof drinking at home, supervised ornot. Parents approval of childrensmoderate drinking, even under pa-

rental supervision, appeared toincrease the risk of childrens mari-juana use.

Early Antisocial Behavior and Hy-peractivity

his risk factor has been iden-tified for boys who, in kindergartenthrough 2nd grade, have a historyof aggressiveness. The risk is es-pecially significant when aggres-siveness is combined with shynessand withdrawal. These childrenmay hit others or slam doors in their

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teachers face. About 40 percent of Alienation, Rebelliousness, Lack Friends Who Use Drugsboys with these behavior patterns of Bonding to Society This is a strong risk factor forwill develop delinquency or drug Some children see themselves adolescent drug abuse, and is inde-problems. This doesnt mean that if as standing apart from their peers. pendent of other risk factors. Thisyour son acts this way he will neces- They adopt an I dont care attitude means that even children who growsarily develop a drug problem. Un- about school, and display their up without other risk factors but

less something is done to help him isolation from school or home. associate with children who usecontrol those behaviors, however, he Theyre not bonded to their school, drugs are at an increased risk foris at an increased risk for drug prob- to their family or to any other positive developing problems with drugs.lems later in his life. social institution and so are more This risk factor underscores the

susceptible to the influence of drug- power of peer influence on teens.Academic Failure Beginning in using peers.Middle to Late Elementary School Favorable Attitudes Toward

Children who do poorly in the 4th, Antisocial Behavior in Early Drug Use5th and 6th grades have an in- Adolescence hen children are in the 4th, 5thcreased risk of abusing drugs. Children and teens who or 6th grades, they often have veryAcademic failure can have several misbehave in school, skip school, strong feelings against drugs. Theyllcauses. It may result when a child and get into fights with others are tell you how terrible cigarettes smellbecomes bored with school and at increased risk for engaging in or how awful beer tastes. They thinkstops working or caring. It may another socially undesirable behavior that children who use drugs areresult when a child has a learning drug use. stupid or losers. Yet when thesedisability. It may result when there children enter junior high school,is a poor match between a teacher they may begin associating withand a student. Whatever the cause, peers who use drugs and their atti-children who do poorly in school are tudes can change quickly. Their shiftmore likely than successful students in attitudes often comes just before

to turn to alcohol and other drugs in children begin to experiment withthe following four to five years. alcohol or other drugs.Little Commitment to School

Another risk factor is a childslack of interest in school. Studentsin the 4th through 7th grades wholose interest in school, for whateverreason, have a greater risk of gettinginto trouble with drugs.

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Early First Use of DrugsMany children who do try ciga-

rettes, alcohol, and marijuana,experiment by the time they leavejunior high school.

Children or teens who begin to

use drugs before age 15 are twice aslikely to develop problems with drugsthan are children who wait until theyare older. Waiting until age 19 to tryalcohol or other drugs dramaticallydecreases the risk of drug problems.

Signs of Drug Abuse Drop in school grades. Sudden change in friends. New interest in the drug culture

(e.g. drug related posters,clothes or magazines).

Lying and/or stealing. Having more or less moneythan usual.

Marked change in sleepingpatterns (getting more or lesssleep).

Loss of weight. Loss of interest in family

activities. Hostile or argumentative

attitude. Refusal or hostility when

asked to talk about possibledrug and alcohol use.

Rapid speech coupled withloss of appetite and excessivethirst.

Poor physical appearance. Memory loss. Fake ID (false drivers license

indicating legal drinking age). Smell of alcohol on their

breath. Bloodshot eyes.

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What You Can DoBecome familiar with youth de-

velopmental assets and risk factors.Learn how parents and educatorscan build up and support their chil-dren and students. For example: Learn to nurture assets in yourchildren. Researchers found thatyouth who demonstrated drug-freeand positive behavior were equipped

with many developmental assets (seepage 38). Make sure that you have a clearfamily policy on no drug use. Setstandards and stick by them; clearlycommunicate your rules on no al-cohol and other drug use. Don'tassume your children know you don'twant them to use drugs. Give your children and teens op-portunities to serve, lead and makedecisions. Involve all of your childrenby giving them responsibilities. Re-ward or recognize accomplishmentswhen they complete tasks. Set consistent and appropriateboundaries and consequences.

Greet students by name when yousee them. Celebrate success witha written note, a call home or verbalpraise. Nurture the development of valuesin your children and teens. Pay attention to your childs gradesand attitudes about school. If there

are problems, such as boredom,lack of ability or a mismatch with ateacher get involved, investigatethe problem and support your child. Know your childrens friends. Askto meet them. Know their names,home phone numbers and, if pos-sible, get to know their parents. Model responsible behavior. Question your own values and atti-tudes about alcohol and other drugs.If you are using drugs or having adrink, your children are noticing thisand learning from you. Help your children resist the pres-sure to use alcohol and other drugs.

Support them by devising ways ofsaying no to their peers who offerthem alcohol or other drugs. Dont compare or judge one childto another. Help each recognize hisor her own special qualities. If your family has a history ofalcoholism or drug dependency, talk

to a counselor or contact a localoffice of the National Council onAlcoholism. Learn about the problemand discuss it with your children. Learn the school's drug policiesand how the issue is addressed inthe classroom. Sponsor drug-free, alcohol-free

parties or activities in your home andyour children's school. Talk to otherparents or join a parent-peer groupto create drug-free places for yourchildren. And finally, learn more aboutalcohol and other drugs and how toprevent their use.

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least lik

RESILIENCY AND ASSETSResiliency researchers found that

assets are powerful influences onadolescent behavior, both protectingyouth from problem behaviors andpromoting positive attitudes and

behaviors. Assets are external(e.g., supportive families) and

Internal AssetsCOMMITMENT TO LEARNING Motivated to achieve. Actively engage in learning. Does homework. Bonding to school. Reading for pleasure.POSITIVE VALUES Caring. Believes in equality and reducing poverty. Integrity. Honesty. Responsibility. Restraint.SOCIAL COMPETENCIES Plans ahead, make choices. Has empathy, sensitivity and friendship

skills. Is comfortable with other cultures, ethnic

backgrounds. Has resistance skills. Seeks to resolve conflict nonviolently.POSITIVE IDENTITY Personal power. Self-esteem. Sense of purpose. Optimistic about personal future.

internal characteristics (e.g., honesty,restraint). Some are listed below.

To confirm that these 40 assetswere influencing factors, Search In-stitute in Minnesota tested the assetsand behaviors of 100,000 students

in 1997. Researchers measured therelationship between the youth's

External AssetsSUPPORT Family support. Positive family communication. Support from other adults. Caring neighbors. Caring school climate. Parent involvement in schooling.EMPOWERMENT

Community values youth. Youth as resources. Youth serves others. Youth feels safe.BOUNDARIES AND EXPECTATIONS

Family sets boundaries. School sets boundaries. Neighbors monitor childrens behavior. Adult role models. Positive peer influence. High expectations.CONSTRUCTIVE USE OF TIME

Creative activities. Youth programs. Religious activities.

behavior and youth's number ofassets, and discovered that youthwith the most assets (31-40) areleast likel to engage in problemalcohol use, illicit drug use orviolence. (See chart below.)ASSETS PROTECT YOUTH FROMHIGH-RISK BEHAVIORS

n ormat on a apte rom t e earc nsttute's 40

Developmental Assets. They can be contacted atwww.searc - nst tute.org or ca 1-800-888-7828.

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ResourcesFEDERAL AGENCIESNational Clearinghouse for Alcohol and DrugInformation

11426 Rockville Pike, Suite 200Rockville, MD 20852(800) 729-6686 www.health.orgNational Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)6001 Executive BoulevardRoom 5213 MSC 9561Bethesda, MD 20892-9561(301) 443-1124www.NIDA.nih.govCenter for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP)Substance Abuse and Mental Health ServicesAdministration (SAMHSA)Department of Health and Human Services 5600 Fishers LaneRockville, MD 20857(301) 443-0365www.samhsa.gov/csap/index.htm

Safe and Drug Free Schools ProgramU.S. Department of Education400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202-0498(800) USA-LEARN (800) 437-0833www.ed.gov/offices/OESE/SDFSOffice of National Drug Control PolicyExecutive Office of the President of the United StatesPost Office Box 6000Rockville, MD 20849-6000(800) 666-3332www.whitehousedrugpolicy.gov

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NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONSNational Council on Alcoholism and Drug DependenceNCADD)

20 Exchange Place, Suite 2902New York, NY 10005(212) 269-7797HOPE LINE: (800) NCA-CALL www.ncadd.orgAlcoholics Anonymous75 Riverside Dr., 11 h Floor

New York City, NY 10115(212) 870-3400www.aa.orgMailing address:Grand Central Station

P.O. Box 459New York, NY 10163Narcotics AnonymousWorld Services OfficePost Office Box 9999Van Nuys, CA 91409(818) 773-9999www.na.orgAl-Anon and Alateen Family Group Headquarters Inc.600 Corporate Landing Parkway

Virginia Beach, VA 23454(757) 563-1600www.al-anon-alateen.org

oin Together41 Stuart Street

Boston, MA 02116(617) 437-1500www.jointogether.org

ommunity Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA)901 N. Pitt Street, Suite 300Alexandria, VA 22314(800) 54-CADCAwww.cadca.org

National Crime Prevention Council000 Connecticut Ave., NW, 13 h Floor

Washington, DC 20036(202) 466-6272www.weprevent.orgPartnership For A Drug-Free America05 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1601

New York, NY 10174(212) 922-1560www.drugfreeamerica.orgMothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)Post Office Box 541688

Dallas, TX 75354-1688(800) GET-MADD(438-6233)www.madd.org800-Cocaine64 West 74 h Street

New York, NY 10023(800) COCAINE (262-2463)www.drughelp.org

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National Inhalants Prevention Coalition2904 Kerbey Lane, Austin, TX 78703 (512) 480-8953 (800) 269-4237 www.inhalants.orgNational School Boards Association1680 Duke StreetAlexandria, VA 22314(703) 838-6722www.nsba.orgHazelden Educational Materials(Information and Treatment Services)Post Office Box 11 CO3Center City, MN 55012-0011(800) 257-7810www.hazelden.orgSearch Institute700 S.Third Street, Suite 210Minneapolis, MN 55415-1138(612) 376-8955(800) 888-7828www.search-institute.orgYouth Power, Girl Power(800) 729-6686www.youthpower.org

CALIFORNIA AGENCIESGenerally in California, alcoholism or other drug abusetreatment or prevention resources can be found in thewhite pages of your telephone book. Look in the front sec-tion titled, Government Pages -under county governmentoffices, thenin the County section under Alcohol and DrugServices. The office may be listed under the county Healthor Mental Health Department.Attorney Generals OfficeCrime and Violence Prevention Center300 I Street, Suite 1150

Post Office Box 944255Sacramento, CA 94244-2550(916) 324-7863www.ag.ca.gov/cvpc

www.safestate.orgwww.stopdrugs.orgDepartment of Alcohol and Drug Programs700 K Street

Sacramento, CA 95814(916) 445-0834(800) 879-2772www.adp.ca.gov

alifornia Department of EducationHealthy Kids Program Office721 Capitol Mall, 3 d FloorPost Office Box 944272Sacramento, CA 95814(916) 657-2810www.cde.ca.gov

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CALIFORNIA ORGANIZATIONSCalifornians for Drug-Free Youth, Inc.Post Office Box 768Big Bear City, CA 92314-0826(909) 585-7828California Friday Night Live Partnership2637 W. Burrel, P.O. Box 5091Visalia, CA 93278-5091(559) 733-6496www.fridaynightlive.orgCalifornia Congress of Parents,Teachers, andStudents, Inc.

930 Georgia StreetLos Angeles, CA 90015

(213) 620-1100www.capta.orgMothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)1325 Howe Avenue, Suite 100Sacramento, CA 95825(916) 921-6233www.madd.orgPartnership for a Drug-Free California2458 Whitney DriveMountain View, CA 94043(650) 210-9665

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Resource CentersCalifornia Department of Alcohol and Drug ProgramsResource Center

1700 K StreetSacramento, CA 95814(916) 445-0834(800) 879-2772www.adp.ca.gov California Healthy Kids Resource Center313 W.

Winton Avenue

Hayward, CA 94544-1198(510) 670-4583www.hkresources.org National Parents Resource Institute for DrugEducation, Inc. (PRIDE)

4684 S. Evergreen Newaygo, MI 49337(231) 652-4400www.prideusa.org

Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory101 SW Main Street, Suite 500Portland, OR 97204(503)275-9500www.nwrel.orgWestEd730 Harrison St.San Francisco, CA 94107-1242(415) 565-3000www.wested.org

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Drugs Drugs and Youth A Parents Guide ADA

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