Parents Can Make

A Difference

To the Editor:

This is a very happy and exciting time of year for our high school students. They will be enjoying “senior skip days,” proms, and graduation celebrations with friends and family. Summer will also provide many opportunities for parties and socializing.

During this period it is imperative that parents and other involved adults become informed about the nature of these social activities. Alcohol and drug use is a real risk among youth in our part of the state. Recent statistics show that as many as 60 percent of all high school juniors and seniors report drinking alcohol in the past 30 days.

The Housatonic Valley Coalition Against Substance Abuse is strongly encouraging all adults in our part of Connecticut to become familiar with the new state laws regarding underage drinking on private property. As of October 1, 2006, several changes have occurred and theses new laws are being enforced throughout our region. Fines can be imposed and possession of alcohol by youth on public or private property may result in the suspension of a driver’s license.

Lately, we have seen that prescription drug abuse is on the rise. Many times the licit drugs being used by teens are coming out of someone else’s medicine cabinet. It is crucial that parents be aware of this problem. The combination of alcohol with sedatives, attention-deficit medications, antidepressants, or other drugs can be extremely dangerous.

Parents can make a difference!

Please make every effort to stay informed and protect our young people from harm at a time when they should be thriving and happy! If you would like more information or need some tips on how to approach the subject of substance abuse, please contact your local prevention council or the HVCASA at 743-7741 or housatonic.valley@snet.net.

Allison A Fulton

Executive Director

HVCASA

69 Stony Hill Road, Bethel                                               May 21, 2007