Summer To Do List: Relax, Refresh, Reduce Risks!

Who among us hasn’t hummed a chorus or two of the classic rock song “School’s Out” lately? Another school year has ended, summer is upon us, and it’s time to refresh and relax regular routines a bit. As parents and concerned citizens, summer also comes with a responsibility to ensure that teens enjoy a break from the school year pressures without becoming involved in negative behaviors.

Summer is the riskiest time of year when it comes to teens and substance abuse, particularly alcohol and marijuana. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more teens try marijuana for the first time in June, July, and August than any other time of the year. The lack of structure and supervision, added freedom and more time with friends may increase temptation and access to alcohol, marijuana, and other drugs.

Marijuana is much more harmful than many parents and teens think. It is a more potent blend than what was available in the 1960s and 1970s. The facts show that marijuana can be addictive, and lead to a host of health, social and behavioral problems at a crucial time when teens’ bodies and brains are still in development.

According to TheAntiDrug.com, kids who use marijuana in early adolescence are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as delinquency, sexual activity, driving while high, or riding with someone who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. They are also more likely to perceive drugs as not harmful, and have friends who exhibit deviant behavior.

It’s not too late to sit down with your teen and make a summer plan that includes safe and fun activities to do with friends and as a family to beat the heat. The Parents, The Anti-Drug website offers some great ideas for summer fun including sports, games, activities, volunteerism, entrepreneurship, education, etc. Make time to visit the summer activities checklist at http://theantidrug.com/SchoolsOut/engage.asp to explore what your teens’ interests might be! Have a safe and fun summer!