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.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom