You Docs: Kids take cues from parents on drug use | Wichita Eagle

 Talk to your kids about drugs and drug use. What you say matters. We know from research that that kids in treatment have a better recovery rate if their parents are in a 12 step program. Whether you know it or not, kids do notice. You can can't prevent their disease, but you can influence how fast they find recovery--set your home rules, let your kids know what you think..and be consistent. Read about the latest research here:
 

You Docs: Kids take cues from parents on drug use | Wichita Eagle: The list of movies aimed at kids that show (supposedly) lovable stars who use drugs is long and well-known: There’s “Cheech and Chong,” “Harold & Kumar” and the entire “Hangover” series (including the tiger – don’t ask). Helping teens stay away from recreational drugs is a big job and one that, unfortunately, some parents don’t feel they’re up to or don’t feel they have the clout to make a difference. That’s info from a new survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration after talking with more than 67,000 Americans over the age of 12.

The upshot: 22 percent of parents don’t think what they say about drug use will change how their children act. But research shows that nothing could be further from the truth. Among kids who feel their parents strongly disapprove of marijuana use, only 5 percent are willing to risk it; but more than 30 percent of kids whose parents don’t make their anti-drug message clear are willing to experiment with pot. Mom and Dad, you are the health guides in all areas — from drugs to doughnuts to sleep.