National Red Ribbon Week will be celebrated October 23-31, 2003. Red Ribbon Week has been celebrated since 1986 when a Drug Enforcement Agent was kidnapped and killed for coming close to breaking up a drug cartel in Mexico. To honor this heroic agent, and to demonstrate their commitment to drug and alcohol prevention, family members and friends began wearing red ribbons. Since that time, the National Family Partnership has adopted this week to raise awareness about keeping children drug-free. Each year, more and more communities and schools across America use this week to educate and promote drug-free youth. The theme for this year's celebration will be "Freedom is Drug-Free, Plant the Promise". On October 23, children are encouraged to plant tulip bulbs as their commitment to a drug-free America. President George W. Bush stated in a Drug-Free Proclamation that three million young people between 14 and 17 have an alcohol problem, and more than half of school age children have tried illegal drugs by the time they have finished high school. While there have been some successes in the fight against drug and alcohol abuse, especially in our children, the figures are still very high. Parents are instrumental in early education and prevention of drug abuse. By providing a healthy home environment and promoting open communication, children are more likely to express their feelings and ask questions about drugs. When children are able to talk and express themselves at home, it is more likely they will be drug-free. Parents need to observe their children's behavior, listen, and talk. Observing Children's Behaviors Get to know your children's friends and peers. Get involved with their extracurricular activities. Encourage your children to invite their friends over so that you can observe the behaviors and interactions among them. Are the conversations among them age-appropriate? What activities are they involved in? Where are they going on weekends? Children involved in extracurricular activities are more likely to have higher self-esteem. Having higher self-esteem will give them the confidence needed to say no to drugs. Listen to What They are Saying So many times parents want to help, but instead of taking the lead from their child, they jump in with advice. Parents need to be able to take a step back and really listen. Many times, the underlying problem or concern lies in what they don't say. Ask open-ended questions and repeat what you think you have been told. The Message Needs to be Clear Parents need to practice what they preach and set a good example for their children. If you don't want your children to use drugs, make sure they know it. By setting rules and communicating the dangers of drugs at an early age, your children will be able to make confident decisions when they are with their friends and peers. Be clear in your communication. Here are some examples of rules to use but put them in your own words and expand from that point on the dangers of drug usage.¹ "The rule in our house is that nobody uses drugs."· "I love you very much and I want the best for you, so I don't want you using drugs."· "Drugs are not a game even though your peers will make you feel like they are." Now is the Time to Start Communicating You don't want your children to use drugs and you want them to make confident decisions when they are faced with temptations, but you may be unclear how begin the conversation. Below are some publications to provide information and how to start talking with your children about drugs and alcohol. Growing Up Drug-Free, U.S. Department of Education - 1-877-433-7827 Make A Difference: Talk to Your Child About Alcohol, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services - 1-800-487-4889 Keeping Youth Drug-Free, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Center for Substance Abuse Prevention - 1-800-729-6686 Remember, substance abuse is not just a problem for children, but an issue for all ages. If you think you may have a substance abuse problem, take this time to learn more about prevention and treatment and how to get help. Getting Help If you would like more information, you can contact your Employee Assistance Program or check with your local Personnel Office. ¹ Adapted from The National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information at www.health.org. © 2002 Magellan Behavioral Health, Inc.