Amber

Question: What do you do if someone puts something in your cup (drink) and someone saw them do it and didn't say anything?

Answer: Hey!
If someone put something in my drink, I would try to focus more on my own well-being and the person who might have actually did it verses the people around who might have seen it happen. It’s important to first ALWAYS tell your parents and/or a trusted adult. Tell them EVERYTHING that happened that day----where you where, who you were with, the people you were around, who you suspect, and especially, how your body felt after you drank from the cup. If you had a headache, your stomach hurt, or you felt weird in any way, make sure your parents take you to the emergency room right away! Even if you’re not feeling any different, but suspect something happened to your drink, you should still go to the doctor just to make sure nothing’s wrong.

If someone puts something in your drink without your knowledge, they may be trying to confuse you or take advantage of you. Most of the time, the drug Gama Hydroxybutyric Acid (GHB) is used to cause this effect. If you think that you have been drugged, it is best to contact the police and file a report – with your parent’s consent, of course. Drugging people with GHB or any other substance is a crime. Anytime someone takes a chance of harming your body, you have the right to take action.

In the midst of this, always remember to put your safety first. Do not communicate with the person you suspect tampered with your drink, or the people who may have watched—let the police handle that. Your job is to tell your parents (trusted adults), and have a routine check-up with your doctor.

For future reference, be sure to never leave your drink unattended. Even if you just leave for a moment to use the restroom or speak to a friend, do NOT drink from the same cup. Just get a new one. Your life is very valuable. That means if you can potentially save your life just from getting a new cup, then that’s what you do!

Hope this helps you!

Amber

Question: I just today found out my mom has been using meth for a couple months and she has lied to everybody saying it was pain pills making her all dizzy and not able to walk strait. She told me that she isn’t that far into it and she can quit. Plus, apparently, she is almost out. I worry about her because of all the things I know about meth. The worst part is, she doesn’t want me telling anybody. Please help.
Tiffany, Missouri, 13

Answer: Hey Tiffany!
First of all, I have to tell you that I am really admire you for writing in---doing so really does show a lot about how much you care for your mom…And trust me, you’re not alone.

When I was little, my father also used drugs. It seemed like the more he became involved in it, the more my family fell apart. I cried myself to sleep many days because I hated seeing the effects drugs had on him. He was often irritable, irresponsible, and just, well….not himself. He would also tell me the same thing your mom tells you, “I’m not too far in it and I can ALWAYS quit.” Yet, sometimes it felt like that “quitting day” would never come. After a few years of painfully watching my dad literally fall apart, I learned the ultimate secret….We shouldn’t hide our feelings from our parents!!!

As kids, we often tend to think that there is absolutely nothing we can do to help our loved ones. However the truth is, there’s A LOT we can do! First, I learned to “EXPRESS” myself. Don’t “bottle up” emotions concerning your mom -- time let her know how much you hate her use of drugs. Secondly, be “PERSISTANT”--- I never stopped telling my dad how much his drug use was hurting me as his child, as well as tearing our family apart. Also, keep researching the facts about drugs. Let your mother know that meth is addictive, and users can develop a tolerance quickly, needing larger amounts to get high. In some cases, the user won’t even eat or sleep. Meth can also cause strokes, heart attack and even death.

Really stress to your mom the effects meth can have not only on her life, but on yours as well. Tell her how much you love her and need her to FULLY be there for you. Parents tend to have “soft spots” for their children’s concerns. However, we have a way of overtaking that. So, what you have to do is slowly kill those “barriers” with a mother’s love. Trust Tiffany, there’s a lot hope that she’ll come around…..My dad did COMPLETELY! Those who meet him now would never think to imagine his past… Just keep hoping, praying, believing, talking and LOVING.

Finally, one additional thing. Sometimes our parents need more help than what we can give. So, if you ever feel in danger or feel your mom can not stop using meth, please tell another adult you trust. Even though we kids have influence, your mom may need more professional help.

Hope this helps in some way….

-Amber

Question: Hi, I am Ray and I am from a country outside America. I recently started smoking pot, and I've seen an increase in my school grades and I have become much more vocal in class. I also enjoy acting a lot more. Can you please explain this to me?

Answer: Hi, Ray! I know some people who say the same thing you do. They feel that after smoking pot, there's an increase in their performance for many things. I would be happy to explain why.

The purpose of a drug is to bring a person to another "level" and give them a high. I'm sure you've noticed that when people do drugs (or alcohol), they start to act much differently. They are no longer in their own true character because smoking pot gives them a false sense of confidence . People who smoke it find it...stimulating. However, the reverse usually ends up happening. The high gets tired after a while. At some point, you have to look in the mirror, realize you ARE worth more than drugs and alcohol, and understand that you can be just as good -- even BETTER-- without the drugs as your "motivation." You have to learn how to go for life naturally because the truth is, your "high" will not last. You will start to feel like you need more and more marijuana to get the same high you started off getting. And before you know it, you become an addict, and later on in life, you will find yourself wondering where it all went wrong, and how you could have changed the situation.

THIS is the time to make that change, Ray. In the long run, long-term use of marijuana will kill those same memory cells you feel are getting you those better grades. You figure, one marijuana plant contains 400 chemicals and 60 of them are cannabinoids (compounds that deal with the psyche (mind)). All forms of marijuana also contain THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), the main active chemical in marijuana, which alters the way the brain works. So, of course the drug is going to have some impact on you if it's dealing with the fluids surrounding your brain. Studies have proven that the chemicals in marijuana bring cognitive impairment and troubles with learning for the user. "Smoking causes some changes in the brain that are like those caused by cocaine, heroin, and alcohol. Some researchers believe that these changes may put a person more at risk of becoming addicted to other drugs such a cocaine and heroin." (http://serendip.brynmawr.edu/exchange/node/1808)

So please Ray, the next day you light up, remember that your central nervous system and brain will be at risk. That's why it's best to just stay away from drugs. It's not worth the outcome.

Hope this helped you. –Always remember Ray, you're cool just as you are. You don't need drugs to "enhance" you because all a drug can do is limit you from being who you truly are. You're worth more... Let people get to know the REAL you! :)
~Amber~
(P.S. If you have any more questions, dare.com & justthinktwice.com are good sources for answers.)

Question: Hi, my name is Nahiomy (na- e -o -me), and I wonder if you say no to someone who trys to sell you drugs and he keeps following you, what do you do?

Answer: Hey Nahiomy!
People are asked everyday whether they want to smoke, drink, or take drugs. However, most of the time, the people asking you won't actually "follow" you around after you CONFIDENTLY say no to them. I'm not sure if you've ever had D.A.R.E, but during classes the D.A.R.E. officers try to teach us ways of confidently saying "No." Examples of that would be the "cold shoulder", "the repeated approach" (when you consistently say "No" over and over), and even the silent treatment. Just make sure that in any way you decide to say no, that you do it with a lot of self-confidence. Always hold your head up high and make sure that you give a strong "NO!" verses being shy and timid. If the person offering you those drugs or alcohol sees that you are truly sticking to your answer, and that your mind can't be changed, then they normally will leave you alone. If, however, someone actually follows you around, make sure you stay in a public place where there are lots of people because there's strength in numbers. If you're in school and someone continues to follow you or mess with you, go find a trusted adult or teacher and tell them what's going on. Your parents are a good source of help too. Don't be afraid to tell them because you think you're snitching. You're not! Your safety is #1 priority, so take care of yourself. Speak up and speak out to someone that can help you. Don't worry about the rest. And always remember, if things get too out of hand, the police are always there to help you as well. Hope this helps!
Amber

Question: What is the most popular drug right now?

Answer: According to some websites, "the most popular drugs used today are caffeine, nicotine and alcohol." However, in schools, the most commonly used drugs would probably be marijuana and prescription drugs. Lots of teens get these drugs from their friends. People use drugs for many reasons. Some use them just because they are curious. Others may try it for the first time with friends, or people they want to "fit in" with. And of course, there are those who think that the drug is an "escape from reality," as if using it will take all their problems away -- it doesn't! As a matter of fact, drugs add even MORE problems to a person's life. Most drugs can cause physical dependence(—You feel like you just HAVE to have them or else...!!!) And the withdrawal process is not fun at all. It's not worth the risk or the pain. The worst part is, not only are you harming yourself in the process, but you're also hurting your family, friends, and others who care about you. So, the best thing to do is just stay away from them. Always remember, the very first time of using some drugs can be fatal. And, even if the consequences don't seem to catch up to you right away, you will feel them later on in life. It's totally not worth it...
Amber

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Miranda

Question: What happens if you try to stay away from drugs but are pressured to take them because of the people around you?

Answer: Hi!
I stay as far away as possible from drugs, but there have been times when I have been put into a situation where there were drugs at the same place I was. Even though I was around the drugs, I had no desire to try them or let anyone break me down to try them. You have to stay strong and be true to yourself. You know what's right and wrong for yourself. And, the best thing to do if you are being pressured is to say NO to drugs and alcohol! If you still struggle with being pressured, you may need to find a group of different people to hang out with. There is always an opportunity to remove yourself from a situation such as this. Just stay strong and don't let anyone break you down! :]
Miranda

Question: Hello, how did you get people involved and the people that go to the schools because when I was in 5th grade, I did DARE and everyone took it as a joke. I am in 6th grade and want our school to trust us. We have to have the police come to our school with dogs to sniff our lockers and that is just wrong, so I want our school to trust us. If you have any answers please e-mail me back thank you. I would love to be friends.
Brianna

Answer: Brianna,
When I was in 5th grade, I did not take D.A.R.E. as a joke. I loved having the D.A.R.E. program in my school and having someone to look up to when I was 11, my D.A.R.E. officer. It is sad that your classmates don't take the class serious, but what truly matters is that you take the class seriously and know how to take a stand for yourself against drugs and alcohol. As you get older, the temptation will always be there if you allow it to be. Don't let that happened though, take what you've learned in D.A.R.E. and run with it. Let others know how you feel and that you can be trusted. Make it about you being trustworthy and not everyone else. They'll see you shining bright and want to be just like you, so eventually they'll catch on and follow in your foot steps!
Miranda

Question: I'm 19 and I wanna know how do people get attached to drugs. My friends are like that. Can u help me, I'm begging help.

Answer: Hi! Drugs can have a very strong effect on you mentally, emotionally and physically. Many people are unaware of all the horrible things that come along with doing drugs. People can get attached to some drugs by only doing them once. They think that just trying out the drug won't harm them in any way, but they're wrong. Addiction comes quickly with some drugs. The more you take drugs, the more your body craves the drug, and the harder it becomes to get clean. You should just be strong in saying no to drugs and be there for your friends because, they're at a time of need in their lives. I'll pray for you to be strong and fight whatever battles you may encounter. Miranda

Question: Hi my name is preston I'm 17 and I live in Dallas county. I would like to be a part of this. I have used drugs for years but am now clean, and I just want to lend a hand to anyone in need. so please let me know what I can do.

Answer: Thanks so much for writing into Teens Asking Teens. I think that it is great that you want to help out just like we do. There are a number of ways that you can get involved in helping others in your community -- and community coalitions are a great place to start. I did an aol search to find community coalitions in your area, and I found information about the Greater Dallas Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse. Go to http://www.gdcada.org/coalitions.htm to learn more about these drug prevention efforts -- and hopefully some of them are close to where you live. I would also suggest that you contact your local DARE officer, or try and find another local program or youth-serving agency or organization where you could volunteer.
It's great that you want to help out. I bet you've got an effective story to tell others about how dangerous drugs are, and the effects they have on your family and friends. I hope that you find the right program to work with.

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Lauren

Question: Do you think the drug war is a justified or failed policy?

Answer: I believe the drug war is a justified policy. Drug use is a serious problem that affects a wide range of the population around the world, from young children to older adults. Drugs like cocaine, marijuana and heroin are illegal, and the drug policy address that fact and helps to educate the public about the harmful effects of drug use. Even though drugs are still around, this does not mean the drug war is a failed policy. Some policies are great in nature but cannot alone solve an entire problem, especially one as big as the drug problem. To solve the drug problem will also take the commitment and desire of the public not to use drugs. Furthermore, because a policy does not solve a problem right away, it does not make the policy faulty. Policies are not made to solve problems in a day; they are made to solve problems over time, whether it be in days, weeks, months, or years. In all, I believe the drug war policy is not a failure; the policy proves we are trying our hardest and using all of our resources to educate people about the dangers of drug use. I believe that we are moving toward success every time we educate people about drugs and every time just one person decides not to try drugs.
Lauren

Question: How does one go about ending up on your board?
Thank you,
John

Answer: John,
Volunteers for the Teens Ask Teens project are picked from the D.A.R.E. Youth Advisory Board. The D.A.R.E. Youth Advisory Board is comprised of one representative from each of the 50 states. To qualify, the representative has to be a high school student, support D.A.R.E. and its teachings, practice leadership, and possess positive qualities. Furthermore, to become one of the Youth Advisory Board representatives, candidates have to submit a resume, an essay explaining why they should be chosen for the their state’s representative, and a letter of recommendation from their D.A.R.E. officer.

Once chosen for the Youth Advisory Board, there are different projects that representatives can take part in. The Teens Ask Teens project is one of those groups. To be chosen for this project, candidates have to send their resume to the DEA, as well as an essay explaining why they should be chosen. If everything checks out and that candidate is the best candidate, he or she will be chosen for the project.
Lauren

Question: Hello, I've actually got a couple of questions, and I'd really be happy if you could help me. I'm doing a drug project for my health class, and there are two questions I still can't answer, they are: What are some strategies to reduce the influence that popular music has in creating an environment portraying drugs as "normal" everyday life? And, the other is: List some things that can be done in a community to raise awareness on drug issues. If you could just help me a little, I'd greatly appreciate it. Thanks, God Bless.
Sincerely, Ashley

Answer: Hi Ashley,
This project seems really intriguing. As for your first question,"What are some strategies to reduce the influence that popular music has in creating an environment portraying drugs as "normal" everyday life," the first strategy I would say is to suggest that people actually listen to the song lyrics. Whenever drugs are mentioned in songs, there are usually other dangerous and violent aspects included in the songs, such as names of guns, shootings, and other criminal acts like robbery. By listening closely to the words of the song and figuring out what the artist's intentions for the song is, it will be easier for the listener to realize that this is not normal everyday life for themselves, or for most of the people in the world. Hopefully, actually hearing and understanding the lyrics will help reduce the influence on that individual, as well as others.

Another strategy I would suggest using is looking up background information on the artist singing the song and the producer of the song. By doing some research, the listener will have more information as to why the artist/producer sang/wrote the song. The listener can then see what events caused the song to be written and performed and realize that those events and the song are not truly normal every day life.

One more strategy is for the listener to distinguish the difference between the words in the song and everyday life. This can be done if the listener does not try to completely relate his/her life to the entire song. If the listener just listens to the music for entertainment purposes and not live the situations expressed in the song, the influence of the song should be minute.

As for your second question, "List some things that can be done in a community to raise awareness on drug issues," there are plenty of things you can do. Every year in my community around prom, the town places a car that was involved in an alcohol or drug related crash in front of the high school. There is also a sign near the car that states how the accident occurred and how many people were injured and killed. This is a really sad, but accurate, way to raise awareness on drug issues. Another thing you can do is start a club about the drug issues in your community. You can ask your D.A.R.E. officer to help you start, run, and promote the club to people in your community. Moreover, you can talk to your D.A.R.E. officer about initiating an annual day dedicated to the D.A.R.E. program that the whole community is involved in. In my community, we have an annual "D.A.R.E. Day." This is where all of the students, D.A.R.E. officers from the community, parents, and neighbors can come to learn more about the D.A.R.E. program, drugs and other substances, new issues that are arising, and new approaches to stop the drug issues. There are also games and food available. It is a fun and educational day for everyone involved. Another thing you can do is to go to www.dareamerica.org, to see how other students and D.A.R.E. representatives have raised awareness about drugs in their communities.

I hope I helped! I wish you all the best of luck with your project!
Lauren

Question: Hey, my name is Katie. Well, my boyfriend smokes marijuana and I told him I didn't care, but now he does it a lot and it's really starting to bug me. I don't know what to do because if I tell him to stop, he'll just do it behind my back. I won't break up with him for that because I love him too much. Please don't tell me what everyone else says, "If he loves you, he'll stop for you" because I know he does love me, we just have different views on this sort of thing. But I really just don't know what to do. Help.

Answer: Hi Katie,
Thanks so much for writing to Teens Ask Teens. As a starting point, I believe you should let your boyfriend know why you want him to quit smoking marijuana. These reasons can be both personal and scientific, telling him how much his smoking habit bothers you and telling him facts about the consequences of smoking marijuana. You should let him know that you want the best for him and that you will be there for him and help support him. By showing how much you truly care about him and his health, he may realize that quitting marijuana is the best choice he can make. More information about marijuana can be found at justthinktwice.com/drugfacts/, www.usdoj.gov/dea/concern/marijuana.html and teens.drugabuse.gov. These websites will definitely help you with the scientific aspects and help strengthen your case on the reasons why he should quit smoking marijuana. By using a combination of reasons, I believe you will be able to successfully reach your boyfriend about his smoking habit.
You can also talk with a parent or guidance counselor. I was once in a situation where my best friend was purposely hurting herself. I tried talking with my friend and being there for her and even though it almost worked, I ended up going to my mom with the situation. My mom talked with her parents and everything turned out okay. She was not angry with me because she realized that I had her best interests and her health in mind. Telling a parent or another adult figure is not "telling on" your boyfriend, since you are only trying to help him. I wish you the best of luck with this. I hope I helped!
Lauren

Question: Hi, my name is Monique, and I have a question. Do you think having other activities in high school, even though you are surrounded with people who use, can really help your decision not to use drugs?

Answer: Hi Monique! Thanks for your question. Yes, I strongly believe that having other activities in high school can help your decision about not using drugs. If you have other activities that you are involved in, such as sports, clubs, jobs, and extracurricular classes, you will realize that it does not matter who is using because you will be so involved in your activities. Also, by having other hobbies, your ability to make the right decision about drugs is increased because you are surrounded by people who do not pressure you negatively.
As a personal example, I know some kids in my school that use drugs and alcohol. Even though I am surrounded by these kids day-to-day, I have other activities that I love, including dancing and ice skating. I know that drugs and alcohol will mess up my life, especially when I dance or skate. Because I have these activities and a few more, I also do not have too much time to think about taking drugs or alcohol. If you are involved in activities that you really enjoy, with people who inspire you to be the best that you can be, than your decision not to use drugs should be easily made -- even if you are surrounded with people who use. I hope this helps!

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Jade

Question: I just wanna know some of the effects on the family caused by ecstasy.

Answer: The impact of ecstasy on a family could be devastating. Ecstasy is a very powerful, dangerous and harmful drug. If a family member is watching someone go through this sort of addiction and trying to get them help, there would no doubt be fear, sadness, and hurt associated with this. The user would likely distance themselves from their family, and they would feel really bad because or this. I think the family would also be very worried and concerned about the negative health affects that ecstasy could have, including overdose and the possibility of death. I hope you do not plan to ever use ecstasy because it could hurt you, as well as others around you. If you know a family member that may need help due to addiction to this drug, please speak to a D.A.R.E. officer, school counselor, adult relative, or friend that can help.
Your Friend,
Jade

Question: Hi my name is Dylan, I want to know- if I smoke marijuana, will I die?
THANX

Answer: Hi Dylan!
Marijuana effects are felt within minutes. Depending on the dosage and other variables, users can feel relaxed, and have altered senses of smell, sight, taste and hearing, distorted senses of time, shifting sensory imagery, rapidly fluctuating emotions, fragmentary thoughts, impaired memory and dulling of attention.High doses of marijuana can result in hallucinations. Marijuana smokers experience the same health problems as tobacco smokers such as bronchitis, emphysema, and bronchial asthma. Extended use is associated with anti-motivational syndrome, lung damage, and risk to reproductive systems. While there have been no reported deaths from marijuana use, there are risks you do take when doing marijuana. I advise you not to do marijuana. It won't make you cool or anything like that, it will just harm your body and ruin your health. If you need anymore information, go to www.justthinktwice.com. It's where I got all my information!
Your friend,
Jade

Question: Why do you think kids do drugs even though they know it is bad for them?

Answer:Hi!
I think some kids do drugs because they want attention. I know kids that do it just because they think they will become cool and everyone will want to be like them! I, for one, don't see why they think that because they are only hurting themselves. Please don't do drugs, it won't make you cool, it will only hurt you!!
Your Friend,
Jade

Question: Is D.A.R.E. a good thing for teenagers?

Answer: YES!! D.A.R.E. is a very good thing for teenagers!! It has been a big part of my life, and I'm so glad I went through the D.A.R.E. Program. It has made me think twice about my decisions, and I am so glad I made the choice to be apart of such a great program even into my high school years!! I hope you make the choice to stay drug free just like me and other D.A.R.E grads! To learn more about D.A.R.E., go to www.dare.org.
Your Friend,
Jade

Question: Hi, I am Paige, and I am from Kansas. My ex smoked marijuana and would get angry when I asked him to stop. After he eventually dumped me, I was distraught and started huffing household chemicals to stop the pain. I nearly got addicted to it and stopped, and now I try to be a positive influence on others and educate them about drug abuse. When I tell them my opinion of pot I am always yelled at or attacked for my beliefs. How can I make them understand what drugs can do?

Thanks for being active in DARE and for any help you can give me.
Paige

Answer: Hi Paige,
I want to tell you how proud I am of you for putting an end to your huffing and for using your voice to try and tell people what drugs can do. My advice for you would be to not give up on trying to help others, as drugs can be so harmful. Look up information and even get pictures of those who have done drugs as evidence and continue to stand your ground. Often our friends think they are invincible and that they can't ruin their lives by doing drugs. But, they can. Addiction is harmful to all involved and often tragic. You are heading in the right direction though with trying to help your friends. There is a ton of information on justthinktwice.com and the D.A.R.E. website, www.dare.com to help you. I wish you luck!:) Here's to a healthy lifestyle.
~Jade

Question: What about Psilocybin Cubensis—your site says nothing about this drug? Peyote is also not mentioned—my friends recently came back from the southwest with some cactus cuttings and the above funus.
Thank you,
John McElyea

Answer: John,
Peyote is a small, spineless cactus. The ingredient in peyote that makes it active is the hallucinogen mescaline. Peyote and mescaline are not legal in the United States. Psilocybin is a chemical obtained from certain types of fresh or dried mushrooms that are found in tropical and subtropical regions of Central America, Mexico, and the United States. Psilocybin mushrooms are not legal in the United States. To find out about how these drugs affect your mind and body, go to www.dea.gov and also www.getsmartaboutdrugs.com. Hope this helps.
~Jade

Question: I want to get the information straight. My health class teacher told us that marijuana is not addictive and does not give you cancer like cigarettes or is not as dangerous as the other drugs like cocaine, meth, etc. Is that true? Why is it so bad to smoke marijuana if it's not that bad for you?
G.L.

Answer: Hi,
Not only is marijuana illegal, but it can also cause many health problems. Marijuana smokers can experience the same health problems as tobacco smokers, such as increase of bronchitis, emphysema and asthma. Extended marijuana use increases risks to the lungs and reproductive system, and marijuana users typically lack motivation. Here are some sites that might help you to understand how marijuana affects the body and mind: www.nida.nih.gov; which is for the science of drug abuse, teens.drugabuse.gov, which is the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) teen website, and www.justthinktwice.com, click on drugs and marijuana. I hope these sites help you to understand the health risks involved with smoking marijuana.
Jade

Question: Hi, I have a 20 year old brother that lives in MI and his friends are trying to get him to smoke and do drugs. He tries to get away, but they do not let him, and he tells people, and they do not do anything. What should I tell my brother?
Madison Sowle

Answer: Hi Madison!
Although I don't have a brother who is older than me, I have guy friends that are like my brothers and that are also around that age. It sounds like your brother is doing the right thing by saying no and trying to stay away from all that stuff. If I were you, I would tell your brother not to give up hope. Tell him to keep saying no and eventually his friends will learn that your brother doesn't want to and will not do drugs. If he wants info about the drugs his friends are doing, tell him about the just think twice website (www.justthinktwice.com). Also, the next time his friends ask him if he wants any drugs, tell him to ask them if they know what those drugs can do to them...that might make them think twice! But, if he does that, make sure he knows the answers as to what those drugs can do to them. It's always good to shoot a question right back at someone, when they ask you to do something you don't want to do!:)

It sounds like you really care about your brother and that you two are really close -- I like that! I also want to say that you are a great little sister to be doing this for your brother -- I'm proud of you! Keep up the great work, and I hope this will help you!
Good Luck,
Jade!

Question: Hi, I'm very scared of what one of my friend does. I'm a pre-teen, and I am just very scared of one of my guy friends. He smokes weed. I don't know what to do. Should I tell the counselor? Do I need to talk to him about this? What do I do? He's like a brother to me, and I don't want to get him in trouble. I have never smoked or done drugs in my life, and I don't plan on it. I am just confused. I have never been on this site, and I remembered the other day about what we learned in DARE. He is influenced by rap songs and his big brother. I love him like a bro, and I really need to make him stop. I can and I know he won't hurt me. Also, one day I was teasing him and I said, ya I want some weed man -- and I said JUST KIDDING (I know its not cool to joke around about that) and I asked him why he does it, and he says its cool and I should try. Well of course I'm going to say HECK NO!! I would never get near that nasty stuff haha but please answer ASAP or before April 12, 2009
Thanks for reading:)
Caitlin (scaredy pooh)

Answer: I understand how you are feeling, I would try talking to him first before you go to anyone for help. Show him the www.justthinktwice website and the Teens Ask Teens questions so that he can see what weed can do to him. Don't try to push it on him because then he might not listen, just take it one step at a time. If that doesn't work, then go to your mom or dad or someone that you can talk to about it and see what they will do to help you, because they will want to help!
I am so proud of you for saying no to smoking weed and for wanting to help someone you love to stop smoking it! I can see that you really do care about your friend and that is amazing! But like I said, don't push him into it, take it one step at a time. If he is the best friend you say he is, I'm sure he will listen to you and hopefully he will try to stop. You said he does it because of the rap music he listens to and his big brother...you can't stop him from listening to rap music and you can't stop him from hanging out with his brother -- but you can try to help him and show him what smoking weed can do to him!
Good luck and hope this helps!
Jade

Question: Ok I just was browsing the Internet and I couldn't find anything other than gossip that maraijuana is bad, but on the other hand in my little research I found many studys done to prove that its not a gateway drug, not addictive, and has no long-term effects other than the smoking it (which all smoke is). To get to my point, I want to know where you get your information. I'm not trying to insult you or D.A.R.E. or anything, I respect the organization, but from the stuff I have read on 20+ sites, I don't think it should be illegal and for medical purposes such as cancer patients and other conditions. By the way, I don't smoke, but hang with potheads and I pretty much fit in with them even though they smoke and I don't.
Please give me a link to your information sight with an actual study that proves or disproves it and not just blank statements without a reason why.

Answer: Hi, There are many sites that give good information about why marijuana is bad for you. Even though you don't smoke it, there may be temptations if others around you are doing this. I understand they are your friends, but you don't want your friends to ruin their lives by smoking marijuana. Here are some sites that might help you to understand how marijuana affects the body and mind: www.nida.nih.gov; which is for the science of drug abuse, teens.drugabuse.gov, which is the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) teen website, and you might want to also try www.justthinktwice.com. Hope these sites help you understand the health risks involved with smoking marijuana.
-Jade

Question: What do you when other teens ask you to smoke weed?

Answer: Hi, I have never been asked to smoke weed before, but I know people who do and who have been asked to do it. If I was asked to smoke weed, I would say "no thank you" and walk away. Don't be rude, but at the same time say "no" in a way that will let them know that you don't want to and that you don't want to be asked again. Hope this helps!
-Jade

Question: Hey Jade, I'm 19 years old and a freshmen in college. Although you have chosen not to try marijuana, which is respectable, have you noticed any significant long-term differences in people in your school who do drink and smoke? To this day, I have not noticed any difference between my peers who smoke, although I can not say the same for alcohol users since they often have to deal with the effects of them making dumb drunk decisions. Undeniably, the majority of high schoolers either drink or smoke, and 100 million Americans admit to smoking marijuana (1/3 of the entire united states population); polls show the majority of the country would like to see marijuana decriminalized. My questions to you, since we have different views on these substances, are these- Do you think the effects of marijuana on its users are worth over 30 BILLION dollars a year in tax payer money well 89% of these marijuana arrests are for non-violent possession charges only? Also, do you feel that marijuana is a bad enough drug to leave a black spot on peoples records that stays with them for rest of their life? Lastly, do you think students from lower and middle income families should not receive help paying fro college because of such a charge? Marijuana use has not significantly went up in states that have decriminalized and marijuana use has not went down since the drug war began. I was just wondering your view on this since you are strongly against these drugs, and I was wondering if you think its bad enough for all those consequences. Please keep in mind that these resources, if marijuana were decriminalized or legalized, could be used to go after harder drugs and the black market connection that makes it easier for marijuana users to go to harder drugs from marijuana essentially eliminating any "gateway effect" marijuana or alcohol may have. Also, if you would like to have a discussion about this I would love to, you can e-mail me back and I can give you my AIM SN.
Sincerely,
Evan N.

Answer: Evan, to answer your question, marijuana is a dangerous drug and its long-term affects should be taken seriously and our society should continue to fight to keep it illegal. Although you make good points about what you may "see" in your friends' drug use and its effects, keep in mind a couple of key things. First, alcohol itself can certainly harm the body if not consumed in extreme moderation, and it is illegal until the age of 21. And second, marijuana has a number of health effects that aren't always seen at first glance, including increase of bronchitis, emphysema and asthma. Extended marijuana use increases risk to the lungs and reproductive system, and marijuana users typically lack motivation.
Some people have to learn things the hard way and if that means them having a black spot on their record, well, then I think its okay. As for your question about college, I do think that even people who make mistakes should have an opportunity to pull it together; therefore, I believe situations should be taken on a case-by-case basis. If a student is going to make an effort to lead a healthy lifestyle, I think they should still be considered for funding.
Thank you so much for your questions and good luck in college!
Jade

Question: Hi Jade, we have been warned about the substance called "Meth" which is made of Battery Acid, Drano, Antifreeze, Sudafed, Kitty Liter, Lye, and Lithium Battery and has layed a path of destruction through the Midwest. Additionally, the medical facts state that when a batch is made correctly a person can get addicted with just 2 to 3 hits...and then has a 13% chance of ever getting sober because of the hideous effect it has on the brain's neurotransmitters. My question is why do you think this substance is being presented as the same "Crystal Meth," "Ice," "Speed," "Methamphetamine," and many other names that have been around for years, but surely has not caused the magnitude of damage the new substance does. Doesn't that lead people to believe that it is one thing when it is clearly a completely different drug?
Thank you,
Ron DeJohn

Answer: Dear Ron, meth is indeed a seriously dangerous drug and is spreading rapidly across the nation. Meth comes in various forms and each form has its given name. For example, when meth is smoked, it it called Ice, Crystal, Crank and Glass. All forms are made with some of the same ingredients and all attack the central nervous system. I don't believe that the experts are trying to mislead us about the drug, I just think they are trying to educate us on the dangers of the deadly drug and its many forms and names. I hope this helps. There are many web sites that you can visit for additional information about meth. I'd suggest you begin with www.dea.gov, www.teens.drugabuse.gov and www.justthinktwice.com. Please help me in educating everyone close to you about the dangers of meth. Thanks, Jade

Question: I thank you all so much for the advice that you give people, and I was hoping you could do the same for me. I have an older friend who says he just "socially" does drugs. But I can see it is taking over his life. He is using it whenever people offer it to him, and the worst part of it all, is that it can be any drug. He doesn't care. He often tells me he just does it socially, like how people socially drink. And he also comes back with saying how he never buys the drugs, which he is giving off the message that how can he really be addicted? But I know better. This has just recently started this summer, and I can see it is getting worse as time goes on. I and some of his other friends have tried talking to him. But we get nothing but him telling us to just calm down and stop worrying about things. What can I possibly say to him?
Cheyenne; Minnesota

Answer: Dear Cheyenne, my name is Jade and, like you, I know people that do drugs "socially." If I were you, I would do some research about the drugs he is taking and show him what those drugs are doing to him. He needs to know that drugs can ruin his body. Have him sit down with you and some of your friends and talk to him about what he is doing. Show him that you care about him and the direction he his headed if he keeps this up. Maybe by you telling him that you care about him and by showing him what these drugs can do to him, he will stop. Good luck and I hope it all works out! Keep your head high and whatever you decide to do don't give up!
P.S. encourage him to visit our DEA website -- www.justthinktwice.com -- it has some great information about the consequences of drug use, how it affects your health, your family and friends, and even the legal problems that it can cause.

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Phillip

Question: What would be a great dare essay?

Answer: For a great DARE essay, I think you should talk about what you've learned or maybe what was your favorite part of the program. Maybe even what you like about your DARE officer. For me, it was how he was always making me and my class laugh. But then, he would still be teaching us stuff at the same time.
Phillip

Question: I have a very important question. Do permanent markers count as inhalants because me and my friend were goofing off and sniffing permanent markers because they smell good, then I felt dizzy. I almost fainted. I also had a headache after. I then read that you could die smelling an inhalant your first time. Was I doing inhalants? I promise, I will never do that again.
Mia

Answer:To Mia,
I have done a little research and found that permanent markers do count as inhalants. The reason is due to something called solvents that are in the markers themselves. When inhaled these solvents can cause pretty much exactly what happened to you. I'm glad that you won't do that again and that you weren't hurt by this experience.

For some quick information about inhalants, you should go to http://www.justthinktwice.com/drugfacts/inhalants.cfm and http://www.dare.com/home/DrugInformation/Storyd4f0.asp?N=DrugInformation&M=11&S=22.
Phillip

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