Underage Drinking Prevention Coalition

Rates of prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drug abuse are increasing at alarming rates across the country and are resulting in sharply higher levels of accidental poisonings and overdoses. National studies show that 70% of youth who report abusing these drugs get the medication from friends and family, often from a home medicine cabinet. If every household in our community takes two simple steps, we will significantly increase the safety of our youth:

• First, reduce access to drugs by safely disposing of unwanted medication and securing the prescription and OTC medication you keep in your home
• Second, educate your children /grandchildren about the dangers of misusing these drugs

Many youth have the misperception that prescription and OTC drugs are safer to abuse than street drugs because they are prescribed by a doctor and/or manufactured by reputable firms. The misuse of these drugs is very dangerous, particularly because their use is often combined with alcohol or other substances.”

Meeting Agenda

Results for Lake Forest/Lake Bluff were presented to over 60 community leaders on October 29th at the Fall LEADer's Luncheon. Students in Grades 6, 8, 10, and 12 in School Districts 65, 67, and 115 were administered the Illinois Youth Survey in February 2008, covering a number of problem behaviors including bullying, other violence, nutrition, and the use of gateway (alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, inhalants) and other drugs. Key risk and protective factors that strongly contribute to community-wide substance use rates were also measured.

Tuesday, September 16
9-10:30am
LFHS West Campus Center, Seminar Room A
300 S. Waukegan Road
Lake Forest, IL

Award-winning DVD, created for parents by the Speak Up! Underage Drinking Prevention Coalition, offers compelling personal stories that convey the risks of teen alcohol use and get conversations started! 89% of parents said watching the film together with their teen helped them have a meaningful discussion. Here's what parents and their teens shared after viewing the DVD...

I now feel more comfortable speaking to my parents and friends about drinking. --Student

Excellent DVD ... a message my son will remember. --Parent

I just thought that the one time you make a mistake could be your last mistake. --Student

It certainly opened by eyes. --Parent

I had a really good talk with my mom and brother... now I'm even more convinced not to drink. --Student