Why some teens use drugs  Looking cool.  Feeling accepted by peers.  Escaping emotional problems.  Peer pressure.  Media. Television Movies

Why are drugs harmful to teens?  Harms growth and development.  Harms mental/emotional health.  Drugs are illegal.  Drugs use creates problems at school.

Drug use and the law  Drug possession – when a person has or keeps illegal drugs.  Probation – set period of time during which a person who has been arrested must check in regularly with a court officer.  Direct connect between drug use and crime.

Reasons to avoid drugs  Show respect for yourself.  Show that you care for yourself and your health.  You can plan for your future.  You stay in control.  You will act more responsibly.  You respect the law.

Alternatives to drug use  Alternative – another way of thinking or acting.  Sports  Clubs  Hobbies  Play music  Part of a play  Volunteering

How to refuse drugs  Resisting peer pressure Most likely to pressure you to use drugs.  Refusal skills – effective strategies for saying no to harmful behaviors.  Assertive – willing to stand up for yourself in a firm but positive way.

S.T.O.P.  Say no in a firm voice.  Tell why not.  Offer other ideas.  Promptly leave.