Drug forum open to all parents
It's not easy to explain the lure of drugs to teenagers, or what exactly happens to their brains physiologically if they succumb.
Andrea G. Barthwell hopes to clear some of the confusion and give parents guidelines on ways to steer their children from drugs.
The former deputy drug czar under President Bush will present "Risky Behavior: What's at Stake and How to Prevent It" at 7 p.m. Tuesday in Glen Ellyn.
The free session, open to all DuPage County parents, will be held in the Glenbard West auditorium, 670 Crescent Blvd., Glen Ellyn. There's an hourlong discussion group for parents starting at 6 p.m.
Barthwell plans to talk to parents about why teens are attracted to drugs, what are the ramifications of using them, and to dispel common myths about drugs.
"Based on her research, her expertise, she really has what is the latest up-to-date implications on drug use in our teenagers," said Gilda Ross, District 87 student and community projects coordinator.
The workshop topics include:
• Explaining how false belief marijuana is harmless and not addictive contribute to its use and dependence.
• Explaining brain reactions to marijuana, alcohol and other drugs
• Citing evidence for increased potency of today's drugs and relationship to risky behavior.
• Describing variables to experimentation among youth and ways to prevent risk-taking behavior among teens.
Risky Behavior
What: Presentation for parents on the effects of drugs on teenagers, and ways to prevent risky behavior.
Where: 670 Crescent Blvd., Glen Ellyn
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday
Cost: Free. Open to all DuPage County parents
Details: Call (630) 942-7573.