Impaired Driving: Talk with Your Kids

 

Impaired driving remains an issue that affects Americans every day. On average, 3-in-5 people will be involved in a crash due to impaired driving in their lifetime. Impaired driving can have serious consequences, including injury and death.

The most effective way to stop impaired driving is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Know the facts and talk with your kids about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

*Almost 1-in-4 teen car crashes involves an underage drinking driver

*Everyday about 800 people are injured in a drunk-driving crash

*Each day in America, another 29 people die as a result of drunk-driving crashes - that's 1 person every 50 minutes

*Marijuana use is increasing - 13% of weekend nighttime drivers have marijuana in their system

Click this link for tips to help parents talk with kids about drunk and drug-impaired driving

https://www.samhsa.gov/substance-use/prevention/talk-they-hear-you/parent-resources/impaired-driving

13 Simple Ideas to Help Your Mental Health

 

Mental Health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Your mental health influences how you think, feel, and behave in daily life. It also affects your ability to cope with stress, overcome challenges, build relationships, and recover from life's setbacks and hardships.

Often, we have to work harder these days to ensure strong mental health simply because there are so many ways that life can take a toll on our emotional well-being. That's why it is important to take time to do things that help you live well.

Try one of the 13 Simple Ideas suggested by our friends at Positively Present to help find what you need and enjoy.😴🎵🎨🧩🌲🧘🌴💃 Practices like these can help elevate your mood, become more resilient, and enjoy life - this is an essential part of overall health and YOU are worth it!💓

Learn the Suicide Warning Signs for Youth

 

It is important to take the time to learn the warning signs for suicide, help those in crisis, and change the conversation. It could truly help to save the life of a family member or friend. 

Take Action if you notice these signs in family or friends:

*Talking about or making plans for suicide
*Expressing hopelessness about the future
*Displaying severe/overwhelming emotional pain or distress
*Showing worrisome changes in behavior

Specifically, this includes Significant:

*Changes in sleep (increased or decreased)
*Anger or hostility that seems out of character or context
*Recent increased agitation or irritability

If you or someone you know needs help, call or text 988 or chat: https://988lifeline.org/

Project Prom featured in Today's LAL Today!

 Thanks to our friends
at LAL Today for featuring
Project Prom in today's issue
with a great article and photos!

👗🤵🎀

Final Two Project Prom Shopping Days: March 29 & April 5

 

InnerAct Alliance and UthMpact are proudly hosting our 13th year of the Project Prom effort to provide formal wear and accessories to deserving high school students. The final two Student Shopping Days are coming up quickly on Saturdays: March 29 and April 5 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Project Prom Store at Lakeland Square Mall, 3800 US Hwy 98N in Lakeland (use entrance to the right of Dillards).

Students with a Polk School ID can sign a pledge and receive their dresses and suits for FREE! Congratulations to those who have already pledged to celebrate alcohol and drug-free and took home special dresses and suits on our Project Prom shopping days. Over 5,500 prom ensembles have been provided at no cost to young women and men in Polk County since 2013.

Please support the effort by donating gently used dresses, shoes, men's suits, and accessories. Especially needed are women's dresses in sizes XS (0-3) and Plus Sizes (18+) and men's dress pants (waist 30-36) and dress shirts (all sizes). Formal wear donations may be taken to the Project Prom Store on shopping dates or to the InnerAct Alliance office at 621 S. Florida Avenue in Lakeland (8:30am-4:30pm, weekdays). 

For more information, call the IAA office at (863) 802-0777 or visit our Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/ProjectPromofPolk

The Latest Vaping News

 

While some smokers use vaping as a potential smoking cessation tool, studies suggest vaping does not effectively help people quit smoking - in fact, it may even lead to continued nicotine use and keep users smoking longer.

A new study out of the University of California at San Diego refutes the notion that vaping helps people quit smoking cigarettes. The study looked at 6,000 smokers and found that smoking cessation was more than 4% lower for those who vaped every day. Those who vape - but not every day - showed similar results of more than 5% lower success rate than smokers trying to quit without vaping.

Vaping introduces harmful substances into the body. Researchers say the safest and most effective methods for quitting smoking are FDA approved replacements such as nicotine gum and patches.

In 2024, the CDC estimated 8.1% of middle and high schoolers used some sort of nicotine. Most use vapes. CDC studies show that 85% of those who vape choose flavored e-cigarettes. Gregory Conley, president of the American Vaping Association, said, "Take the flavors away and you're encouraging more tobacco use. When you ban flavors in vaping products, you end up advantaging traditional combustible cigarettes."

Recently here in Florida, a settlement was reached between the state and e-cigarette company Juul as a result of the company's past marketing practices that targeted children. On March 10, 2025, Attorney General James Uthmeier announced a $79 million settlement with Juul Labs, Inc. - $30 million of which will go toward the Vape Free Florida Fund to aid in the enforcement of the State's nicotine and vapor laws. 

As a result of the settlement, Juul shall not take any action to reach youth in Florida in the advertising, promotion, or marketing of Juul products. Additional terms of the settlement include:

*Juul shall not use models under age 35 in its ads

*Juul shall not use brand names or cartoons in its ads

*Juul shall not have its products/logos on TV or in movies

*Juul shall not make any claim or representations comparing quantification of amount of nicotine in Juul products to that found in combustible tobacco products

*Juul shall not advertise products in media or outlets in Florida unless 85% or more of the audience of media are not youth

*Juul shall not use billboards in Florida

Read more:
https://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrelease/attorney-general-james-uthmeier-announces-79-million-settlement-juul-and-establishes

Know Your Anxiety Triggers

 

Anxiety is a mental health condition that can cause feelings of worry, fear, or tension. For some, anxiety may also cause panic attacks and physical symptoms like chest pain. Anxiety disorders are very common. It is estimated that nearly 40 million people in the U.S. are affected.

What Triggers Anxiety? Causes can be complicated and it is likely that a combination of factors, including genetics and environmental reasons, can play a role. Some events, emotions, or experiences can also cause symptoms of anxiety to begin or become worse.

It is important to discover what triggers your anxiety. Being aware of the cause can help you better manage it. So, next time you skip a meal or a workout, overdo sugar or caffeine, or decide to leave that chore until later, consider that it may have an adverse effect on your mental health. 

Happy Springtime in Florida!

 

Happy Spring

from InnerAct Alliance  🌷

Today’s Did You Know Fact for National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week: Substance Use

 

During National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW) - celebrated this week March 17-23 - we are sharing facts focused on the science of drug use and addiction to educate and empower youth to make informed decisions.

Today's Did You Know Fact: We are often asked why some teens and adults are more likely to use drugs. In reality, people report using drugs for a wide variety of reasons. Some people use drugs to feel pleasurable, stimulating, or relaxing effects. Others who experience anxiety, stress, depression, or pain may use drugs to try to feel better. Some say they use drugs to improve their focus in school or at work or their abilities in sports. Many people - especially young people - use drugs out of curiosity and because of social pressure. 

The age at which people start using drugs - and whether or not they continue - depends on many different individual and societal factors across a person's life. No single factor determines whether a person will develop a substance use disorder. Evidence-based prevention strategies can help people avoid substance use, substance abuse disorders, and related health and safety problems.

Learn more about the common risks and protective factors that impact whether people may use drugs or develop substance use disorders on the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)'s website at:
https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/prevention#risk-and-protective-factors-impact

Today’s Did You Know Fact for National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week: Alcohol

 

During National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW) - celebrated this week March 17-23 - we are sharing facts focused on the science of drug use and addiction to educate and empower youth to make informed decisions.

Today's Did You Know Fact: Drinking alcohol increases your cancer risk and doctors are urging people to take notice. Drinking moderately is associated with multiple forms of cancer as well as other health issues such as heart disease, liver disease, pancreatic issues, inflammation (which can contribute to chronic diseases) and brain shrinkage. The National Institutes of Health warn that alcohol breaks down in the body into acetaldehyde, a carcinogen that has been shown to contribute to at least 7 forms of cancer. #NDAFW

Learn more about the hidden dangers of consuming alcohol and how cutting back can protect your health at: https://www.aol.com/lifestyle/alcohol-increases-cancer-risk-doctors-100000520.html?

Register Today for Annual Prevention Summit on April 17

 

Join InnerAct Alliance and the StandUP Polk Coalition at the Annual Own The Upside Prevention Summit on Thursday, April 17, 2025 from 8:00am to 4:00pm at the W.H. Stuart Center | UF/IFAS Extension Office, 1710 US Highway 17 South in Bartow, to learn about important issues facing our community. It is an opportunity for teachers, school resource officers, administrators, counselors, social workers, and prevention specialists to come together and share up-to-date information with a realistic view of current youth culture, emerging drug trends, and other topical issues. Admission is $28.52 and includes a light breakfast and lunch. 

Registration:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/own-the-upside-prevention-summit-tickets-1219654261729?aff=oddtdtcreator

During 2025, InnerAct Alliance is celebrating its 40th Anniversary of serving the community with science-based education programs that increase protective factors and decrease risk factors for nearly 15,000 students, as well as outreach to over 100,000 citizens through informative presentations, a premier youth leadership program, teen-driven social norms marketing, and family-oriented awareness events. The 40th Anniversary celebration will officially kick off at the Prevention Summit with a special Anniversary cake cutting during lunch attended by local community leaders. All attendees at the Prevention Summit will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a piece of beautiful Ruby jewelry in celebration of InnerAct Alliance's Ruby Anniversary!

For more information, please call IAA at (863) 802-0777.

Spring Break Safety: How to Keep Your Teen Safe & Responsible

 

This week is Spring Break, an exciting time for teens that offers a break from school, a chance to relax and have fun with friends. But the time off also comes with risks like peer pressure, substance use, and online dangers.

Parents can help their teen stay safe by having open conversations and setting clear rules to help them enjoy their time off responsibly. InnerAct Alliance is proud to partner with Informed Families to help promote the Safe Homes, Smart Parties Campaign, which encourages parents to take simple steps to protect their teens and keep spring break safe.

Here are some suggestions to help teens make smart choices:

Make Your Home a Safe Space - make sure your home is a secure, supportive place. Plan fun, alcohol-free activities to keep teens engaged. Don't allow underage drinking or drug use and communicate with other parents to ensure your teen is safe and attending supervised gatherings.

Set Clear Rules & Expectations - sit down with your teen and set ground rules. Talk about curfews, plans, and who they'll be with. Ask them to check in with you regularly through text or calls. If they are traveling, go over safety measures, emergency contacts, and how to handle unexpected situations.

Talk About Peer Pressure & Substance Use - peer pressure is common during spring break. Help your teen feel confident in saying no to risky situations. Practice responses they can use if someone offers them alcohol or drugs. Encourage them to stay with friends who make smart choices. Remind them that underage drinking and drug use can lead to dangerous situations and bad decisions.

Teach Online & Social Media Safety - teens are always online, so it's important they understand how to use social media safely. Explain that once something is posted online, it can't be erased even if deleted. Warn them not to share their location, which could make them a target for strangers.

Talk About Safe Transportation - no matter where your teen is, they need a safe way to get around. Make sure they have access to safe rides. Remind them never to get in a car with someone who has been drinking or using drugs. Encourage them to use rideshare apps, public transportation, or a designated driver if needed.

Keep Communication Open - teens need to feel comfortable talking to you. Make sure they know they can reach out for help without fear of punishment - and that they can call you anytime if they feel unsafe. Listen and let them share thoughts and concerns. Show support and understanding when discussing tough topics. 

Parents can take a stand against underage drinking and risky behaviors by joining the Informed Families' Safe Homes, Smart Parties Campaign. 

Read more at: https://www.informedfamilies.org/catalyst/spring-break-safety-tips-for-parents

National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week – March 17-23: Cannabis

 

National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW) - celebrated this week March 17-23 - is an annual event focused on the science of drug use and addiction to educate and empower youth to make informed decisions about substance use and their health. 

Today's Did You Know Fact: Studies show that 9% of people who use cannabis will develop a dependency - and that number jumps to 17% for those who start using in their teens. Early use = higher risk of addiction. Let's give teens the facts to make informed decisions. #NDAFW

Teens can test their knowledge about drugs, alcohol, and substance use by taking the interactive National Drug and Alcohol IQ Challenge Quiz:  

https://create.kahoot.it/details/0c339ba3-618a-4fae-a89d-c02a917e33d2

Wishing You Luck of the Irish on St. Patrick’s Day!

 

Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick's Day! This holiday began as a Christian feast day celebrating the life of St. Patrick and spreading Christianity to Ireland. Today it is celebrated as a day of revelry with food, drink, music and all things Irish. Remember to wear green and on this day, may your troubles be less and your blessings be more and you come into luck like never before! 🍀

If you're looking to dish up something special for St. Patrick's Day, here are some delicious recipe ideas from corned beef & cabbage to hearty Irish stew to tasty Irish soda bread: 

https://www.almanac.com/best-st-patricks-day-recipes

Happy Pi Day – 3.14

 

You don't have to love math to like Pi Day, which is celebrated today March 14 (3.14). Pi, the Greek letter "n", is a math symbol that represents a constant - the distance around a perfect circle, or the circumference of a circle to its diameter - which is approximately 3.14159. 

Math enthusiasts like to celebrate this day by reciting the infinite digits of Pi. Pi Day was founded by Larry Shaw, a physicist at the Exploratorium in San Francisco. The first Pi Day celebration involved Shaw and his wife handing out slices of fruit pie and tea at 1:59pm, which are the three digits following 3.14.

Most of us can probably best relate to eating pie instead of calculating it, right? Look for local restaurants and retailers who often offer deals on this day on baked pies, pizza, and other items with special pricing based on 3.14 - enjoy!

How Are You Doing After the Time Change?

 

Just a quick check to see how you are doing since last weekend's "spring forward" for Daylight Saving Time. While losing one hour may seem harmless, it can actually throw our bodies and schedules off for a few days!

Here are some Pros and Cons of DST:

PROS👍

*safety - more daylight makes driving safer, lowers risk of car accidents, and pedestrians struck by vehicles

*good for economy - more daylight - more time for shopping after work, increasing sales

*uses less electricity - lower power bills

*active lifestyle - more time for outdoor activities after work and school

*fewer crimes - more light makes it easier for criminals to be identified

CONS 👎

*increased health issues & sleepiness - disrupts the body's circadian rhythm

*confused time schedules - not only people but also pets, businesses, industry

*decreased productivity

It's good advice to just embrace the longer hours of daylight and let go of excuses that may be holding us back!🌞

An Alert on Energy Drinks!

 

Adults frequently use energy drinks to enhance work productivity or simply as a means of rejuvenation. Adolescents may turn to these beverages for the same reasons, but also as a signal of social status among others in their age group. According to UCLA Health studies, adolescents can become dependent on feeling more energetic after consuming highly-concentrated caffeine and sugary energy drinks.

Energy drinks are characterized by elevated levels of caffeine and sugar, which can increase heart rate, elevate blood pressure, cause strokes, increase addictive behaviors, cause anxiety, sleep disturbances, and many other outcomes.😓 After consuming energy drinks, many individuals experience a rapid decline in energy levels that result in decreased physical activity and a sense of sluggishness. This cycle may contribute to addictive responses for people of all ages.

The use of certain substances in energy drinks may result in the development of dependence, withdrawal symptoms, headaches, increased heart rate, and elevated blood pressure. Side effects can worsen in individuals with pre-existing medical conditions. Potential side effects may be intensified in youth who experience mental health issues, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Parents should have healthy conversations with youth and teach them how to read product labels since many foods and beverages contain caffeine in varied amounts. Approach the topic openly and honestly - ask which benefits your child is seeking by using these drinks. Have your physician share the dangers and long-term effects of these energy drinks and suggest healthy alternatives. 🍎🍇

Thanks to our prevention partners at Drug Free Lee (www.LeeHealth.org) for sharing this alert. For more info, contact your physician or visit the Food & Drug Administration site at https://www.fda.gov

Legal Does Not Mean Safe for Cannabis Use

 

Doctors warn of cannabis-related medical risks and remind us that: Legal Does Not Mean Safe. As cannabis is legalized in more states, new research is pointing to the negative side effects of partaking too much.

As reported on a recent Fox News segment, researchers from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus studied the impact of recent and lifetime use on brain function during cognitive tasks. According to the university, the study published in the journal JAMA Open Network is the largest of its kind using brain imaging technology to examine the effects of cannabis use on 1,000 young adults from age 22 to 36-years-old. 

Researchers looked into the impact of recent and lifetime cannabis use on brain function during cognitive tasks. Cannabis users were tested on "working memory" and the ability to retain and use information to perform tasks like solving a math problem. Neural response was measured over 7 cognitive tests while probing working memory, reward, emotion, language, and motor skills. 

Results showed that 63% of heavy lifetime cannabis users demonstrated reduced brain activity while completing a working memory task. Reduced brain activity🧠was found in areas involved in cognitive function like decision-making, memory, attention, and emotional processing. 

More long-term studies are needed to understand the relationship between cannabis use and brain function, how long effects can last and the impact on different age groups. 

Read more:

https://www.foxnews.com/health/heavy-cannabis-use-could-pose-threat-brain

The Power of Positive Thinking

 

Positive thinking is a powerful tool to help us manage stress and stay solution-focused in tough times. It does not necessarily mean avoiding difficult situations. Instead, positive thinking means making the most of potential obstacles, trying to see the best in other people, and viewing yourself and your abilities in a positive light.💡

Research has found that positive thinking can aid in stress management and play an important role in overall health and well-being. It can help combat feelings of low self-esteem, improve physical health, and help brighten your overall outlook in life.

Strategies to practice positive thinking and maintain a more positive outlook on life:

*Notice your thoughts - pay attention to the type of thoughts you have each day. Try to reframe your thinking in a more positive way.

*Practice gratitude - practicing gratitude can have a range of positive benefits. It can help you learn to develop a better outlook. Try writing in a gratitude journal, which might help you feel more optimistic.

*Use positive self-talk - studies have shown that shifting to a more positive self-talk can have a positive impact on your emotions and how you respond to stress.  

Even if you are not a natural-born optimist, these steps can help you learn how to become a more positive thinker! 🧠

Spring Forward This Weekend to Daylight Saving Time

 

Daylight Saving Time officially begins this Sunday, March 9 at 2 a.m. - it's time to change our clocks to spring forward one hour, losing an hour of sleep. Many people choose to change their clocks before they go to bed on Saturday night. With the change, it will stay lighter in the evening.

A little bit of history, Daylight Saving Time became established law in the U.S. with the passage of the Standard Time Act in 1918. It was implemented as a way to maximize daylight hours to help save on energy consumption during World War I. Hawaii and Arizona do not participate in daylight saving time.

Some health experts argue that daylight saving time disrupts the body's natural day-to-night rhythms. It is also associated with cardiovascular problems and mood changes.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) has issued Daylight Saving Highway Safety Tips since the time change is known to adversely impact sleeping patterns and raise the risk of drowsy driving, which can lead to more crashes. AAA recommends drivers get enough rest before hitting the road and also reminds us that it is important to avoid distractions when driving, obey the speed limit, and never drive while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. 

Daylight Saving Highway Safety Tips

* Be sure to get enough rest
*Avoid distractions
*Obey speed limits
*Drive sober

Wishing you a safe & fun weekend! 😎

Risks of Vaping & E-Cigarette Use for Youth

 

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) and the 2024 National Youth Tobacco Survey, e-cigarettes were the most commonly-used tobacco product among middle and high school students with 1.63 million (69%) currently using e-cigarettes - this includes 410,000 (3.5%) middle school students and 1.21 (7.8%) high school students.

E-cigarettes are electronic devices that heat liquid and produce an aerosol or mist of small particles in the air. Often they are used to inhale nicotine and marijuana. 

Most tobacco use starts and is established during adolescence. No tobacco products, especially e-cigarettes, are safe for children, teens, and young adults. Knowing the facts may help to counteract the myths about vaping and e-cigarettes that appear on the internet and social media, on TV, in movies and music, or talked about among friends.

The CDC offers the following Quick Facts that are important for everyone to know:

*Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. Nicotine can harm the parts of an adolescent's brain that controls attention, learning, mood, and impulse control

*E-cigarette vapor can contain harmful substances such as nicotine, cancer-causing chemicals, heavy metals such as nickel, tin, lead, and flavorings that have been linked to lung disease

*E-cigarette marketing, the availability of flavored products, social influences, and effects of nicotine and influence youth to start or continue vaping

*E-cigarette use can increase risk for future addiction to other drugs

*Smoking and vaping can harm your lungs by weaking normal defenses that help fight bacteria and disease, causing lasting airway inflammation, and cause more severe symptoms if you come down with a cold or virus

Learn more: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/e-cigarettes/youth.html?

Facts About Illicit Fentanyl

 

This message cannot be repeated often enough - just 2 milligrams of fentanyl can be enough to kill. That's about the size of 5-7 grains of table salt.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid, similar to morphine, but about 100 times more potent. It has a legitimate medical use when prescribed by a licensed medical professional to treat patients with chronic severe pain or severe pain following surgery.

Illicit fentanyl is primarily manufactured in clandestine labs and smuggled into the U.S. to be sold on the illegal drug market. The tasteless, odorless substance can be added to fake tablets or mixed with other illicit drugs like heroin or cocaine - often without the user knowing it is there.⚠

Just 2 milligrams of fentanyl can be lethal, depending on a person's body size, tolerance, and past usage. A fentanyl overdose can happen in seconds or minutes and lead to respiratory failure or death.🕱

InnerAct Alliance is committed to keeping our community informed and sharing evidence-based educational programs to prevent substance abuse and promote healthy choices. Talking about the dangers of fentanyl and supporting youth not to use illegal drugs is the best prevention. Even if you believe your child would never touch a drug of any kind, talk with them about the dangers of experimentation. Knowledge saves lives!

Self-Care Suggestions for March

 

A new month is upon us so what better time to feature Positively Present's self-care suggestions for March! Self-care is an important part of wellness. It is the time and energy you put into taking care of both your mental health and physical health. 

Some cool ideas from this colorful graphic include creating new connections, noticing beautiful moments, tuning into your intuition, and even enjoying breakfast at midnight...or even for dinner!🥚🥓

Self-care practices look a little different for each person - based on their own personal wants and needs. It can help you become more aware of how you feel and what is happening around you.🧘When you take time to care of yourself, you are better able to fully engage in life's experiences and who knows, you may even expand your wisdom and understanding. 

When your mind, body, and soul are balanced and healthy, you are more likely to feel in harmony with yourself and your goals. So, choose a suggestion for March Self-Care and enjoy it for a day, a week, or maybe even for the whole month!😊

Dealing with Peer Pressure & Influence

 

Peer pressure, or influence, comes in all shapes and sizes - some good, some bad. It can have a tremendous impact on a young person's behavior. Research shows the most impressionable age for peer influence seems to be the middle school years when children are forming new relationships and choosing their identity among friends. This is also the most common age when kids begin experimenting with alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and other risky behaviors. Often, the drive to engage in this kind of behavior is the result of peer pressure - and the pressure to conform is very real at this age.

Prevention partners at "Talk It Out" describe the 6 types of peer pressure and offer tips for parents who want to help their child make healthy, life-long choices:

*Spoken Peer Pressure - this type of peer pressure occurs when a teen asks, suggests, or persuades others to engage in a specific behavior. If this is done one-to-one, the recipient of the influence has a stronger chance of adhering to their own core values. But if done in a group setting, pressure to go along with everyone can be high.

*Unspoken Peer Pressure - occurs when a teen is exposed to the actions of one or more peers and is left to choose whether they want to follow along. Many young teens may lack the mental maturity to control impulses and make wise long-term decisions, so they tend to be more susceptible to influence from older or more popular friends.

*Direct Peer Pressure - this type of peer pressure can be spoken or unspoken and is normally behavior-centric. Examples may be when a teen hands another teen an alcoholic drink, makes a sexual advance, or looks at another student's paper during a test. The other teen is faced with having to make an on-the-spot decision. 

*Indirect Peer Pressure - similar to unspoken peer pressure, indirect peer pressure can be subtle but also be a strong influence on impressionable youth. When a teen overhears a friend gossiping then reacts to the gossip, that is an example of indirect peer pressure. Or if a middle schooler learns that the popular kids' parties include alcohol or drugs - that indirect pressure may tempt them to experiment as a way to gain acceptance.

*Negative Peer Pressure - an example of negative peer pressure is asking a young teen to engage in behavior that is against their moral code or family values. Teens see the actions of others with stronger personalities and are put in a position to follow the leader or walk away. Often teens find themselves engaging in behavior that goes against their beliefs because they want acceptance. They may lack the skills to come up with a quick excuse or reason to say no.

*Positive Peer Pressure - a group dynamic can be a very positive peer influence if behaviors are healthy, age-appropriate, and socially acceptable. Examples may be when a peer group wants to make good grades, teens can be positively influenced to study...or when the school football team pledges to abstain from drinking to stay healthy, other students may adopt the same behavior. 

Despite the inevitable influence of friends, many teens say that their parents remain the strongest influence in their lives. Key components for parents to maintain positive influence on their teens are: understanding the types of peer pressure their teen may face, supporting healthy relationships, modeling responsible behavior, and keeping an open, judgment-free family dialogue flowing. 

For more tips: https://www.talkitoutnc.org/