It's never too early to start the conversation. Even young children are exposed to drugs and alcohol through media messages on television, radio and even the Internet. Parents need to counteract these messages as early as possible.  Talk with your child every day about the small and big things in their lives.  Your child is an individual with hopes, fears, likes, dislikes, and special talents.  The more deeply you know your child, the easier it will be to guide her toward more positive activities and friendships.  Establishing a close relationship now will make it easier for your child to come to you when he has a problem.  As a result, your child will be less likely to experiment with alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs. 

When talking to your kids about drugs and alcohol:
1. Acknowledge that marijuana, alcohol and tobacco are substances that are dangerous and that many people use them. Explain that nicotine and prescription drugs are also "abuse-able" and should be treated the same as alcohol and illegal drugs.
2. Start talking with your kids at an early age and take time to explain prevention information to your child in basic terms that are easily understandable. Make your child comfortable talking to you about "difficult" topics such as drugs, alcohol and smoking.
3. Listen carefully to your child. Educate yourself so you can answer his or her questions. As children get older, their questions get more difficult, so you need to be prepared.
4. Peer pressure may play a pivotal role in a child's decision to use drugs, drink or smoke. Encouraging your child to be their own person and make their own decisions will push back against the pressure.
5. Tell your child the truth--that drugs, alcohol and tobacco may make them feel good for a while (by activating brain chemicals). Unfortunately, that feeling is brief and the fun situation can take a quick turn towards danger--no one can know the true potency or lifetime effects of these substances.  
6. Try to impress on your child the long-term consequences that drinking, smoking or using drugs may have on something they enjoy doing, such as sports, math or writing.
7. Point out that youth brains are still developing. Substance use can impair brain function and limit potential.
8. Make the point that repeated use will eventually cause people to crave that substance and want to keep using it even if it hurts them.  This is known as addiction and it can be a permanent consequence to temporary fun.
9. Explain that these substances may dull a painful part of their lives for a brief period, but it will never change or help the underlying problem. Healthy copying mechanisms are the best solution to stress.

10. Write a family "contract" to set expectations and consequences on drug use, drinking and smoking. Be clear and consistent with family rules and consequences.
11. Be a model of healthy behavior for your child.

You can get more facts to share with your teen about drug and alcohol abuse, and more resources for you as a parent by visiting our website at www.cadyinc.org

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Mid-State Health Center featured in Youtube video:

A look at the positive impact that New Hampshire's Community Health Centers have had on their communities, as well as the challenges they continue to face while providing high quality preventive and primary care to the people that need it.

Featuring patient and provider interviews, an overview of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act projects at three New Hampshire Community Health Centers, and a demonstration of the "Patient Centered Medical Home" model of care practiced by New Hampshire Community Health Centers, including medical, dental, and behavioral health care services. Community Health Centers are open to all residents, those with health insurance and those without. Bi-State Primary Care is proud to present this informative look into the world of Community Health Centers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPxsLz30xFY&hd=1 

New Support Group for Dads: Tuesday evenings 6-7 pm in Laconia. This new group for fathers provides a comfortable, confidential way to share your cares and concerns while connecting with and learning from other dads. Grandfathers raising grandchildren are welcome too. Drop-ins welcome; however if you plan to bring children, call to reserve a spot in childcare. Dinner is served from 5:30 - 6:00 pm. The Family Resource Center of Central NH, 635 Main Street, Laconia. contact Shannon at 524-1741 frc@lrcs.org

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Jay Apicelli

Director, Sununu Youth            Development Center 

Maureen Ebner

Pemi-Baker Parent Representative

Full-Time