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Created by Kriya Lendzion
LCMHC, LCAS, CPS
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Substances trending among teens are getting stronger, more appealing, accessible, dangerous, and easier to conceal. Today's caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, cannabis and prescription meds are not what we grew up with!
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Due to the above, youth overdoses and addiction have exploded in recent years, and there is an increase in use-related medical and mental health problems. Including from THC, nicotine and caffeine.
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An explosion in fentanyl and other drug lacings has made just experimenting with drugs potentially deadly.
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Using any substances regularly or in binge amounts can disrupt brain growth, and do long-term cognitive damage.
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THE GOOD NEWS is that research shows us that open conversations in our family about the risks and realities of substances sharply decreases the likelihood and amount of our kids using, as well as the likelihood of their experiencing overdose or problematic use. The more your child feels comfortable talking with you, the greater chance you have of knowing what's going on with them and being influential in guiding them towards healthy choices. HERE's HOW!!