Pubdate: Tue, 07 Aug 2012 Source: Maple Ridge Times (CN BC) Copyright: 2012 Lower Mainland Publishing Group Inc Contact: http://www.mrtimes.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1372 HUG A TEENAGER The senseless death in Maple Ridge of a 21-year-old last week after it appears she took ecstasy has surely shaken every parent in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows. Do we really know what our kids and young adults are up to? How do we help them navigate a world filled with opportunities to get drunk, high, stoned - generally anesthetized. As we let our teenagers become more independent in preparation for adulthood, there's always the risk they'll start down the wrong path leading to substance abuse. The RCMP hosted a drug information session last spring and one of the key themes of the evening was to stay connected with your teens. Teens tend to close themselves in their rooms with their electronic devices only coming out to put on their shoes and head out the door to chill. One suggestion given by service agencies working with teens was having regular "date nights" with your teens - taking them out - one at a time - regularly for ice cream or for bowling or whatever they'll do with you. Then talk a little and listen a lot. Talk with your teen, ask questions, but listen to their answers, and validate their concerns about what's happening in their lives. As a larger society, we should all work to guide our teens - reaching out to a troubled youth who doesn't have a supportive family might make all the difference in their life. Start by saying hello to the neighbour's teenagers - they might look scary on the outside with their hoodies, tats, and piercings but they are often just little kids trapped inside a bigger body in a world that offers them lots of opportunity to trip up and make mistakes. Alouette Addictions provides support for Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows residents struggling with substance abuse Maple Ridge. Call them at 604-467-5179. Alcohol and drug information is also available 24/7 at 604-660-9382. - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom