Underage Drinking

Last Wednesday I was invited to a community wide meeting held at our high school to discuss the problem of underage drinking. The discussion centered on the issue of teenage drinking and drug usage; the prevalence of it in our community (communities across the nation really); and the startling statistics associated with this.

Speaking at the event was our Municipal Judge Kris Koeffler and Jo Anne Franzene – one of the teachers at MECAS. We had group discussions, a video, and large group discussion as well. There are two statistics that stuck out for me. The general perception from youth polled that the use of marijuana is not harmful nor does it lead to harsher, more addictive drugs. I remember from my own youthful days this same mindset - 'pot' is not addictive, it doesn't lead to other drugs, it really isn't a big deal! Yet, statistics would prove otherwise.

The other statistic that caught my attention was the early age our youth are starting to drink and experiment with drugs. It seems each year (or generation) this gets younger and younger.

From ages 13 to about 25 a pruning and strengthening process is happening in the teenage brains. During that time, the brain cells and connections that get used the least die off; those that get used the most get stronger. If during this period, teens experiment with drugs and alcohol the brains region that's responsible for making complex judgments is directly impacted. Alcohol use during adolescence may result in decreased attention, memory, planning and executive functioning. (see more information at www.drugfree.org/teenbrain)

The primary focus for this meeting was to bring awareness of the issue to the parents and community members. Following the meeting I talked with one of the coordinators of the event to ask how we, Milton UMC, might further participate or help. I'll be meeting with her at a later time to talk more in-depth about this, but having literature available, hosting a church-community meeting discussion of our own, being available as mentors to the middle schoolers and high schoolers in need.... are some of my suggestions.

I'll leave you with this thought – parents are the number one deterrent when youth are deciding whether to use alcohol and drugs.
1) Establish some "together time", don't be afraid to ask the hard questions;
2) Eat together as often as you can;
3) Be a better listener;
4) Give honest answers;
5) Be a day-to-day example for your child;
6) And lastly, be absolutely clear with your youth that you don't want them using alcohol or drugs. Ever. Anywhere.

Blessings,
Patrick