Pubdate: Thu, 16 Dec 2010
Source: Arizona Republic (Phoenix, AZ)
Copyright: 2010 The Arizona Republic
Contact: http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/opinions/sendaletter.html
Website: http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/24
Author: Shelly Mowrey

TEACHABLE DRUG MOMENT

Video was leaked to the Internet of Miley Cyrus smoking salvia
divinorum, an herb that produces hallucinogenic effects when smoked or
ingested. Since then, there have been reports of increases in salvia
sales at some California smoke shops. What type of influence do
celebrities have on kids and teens with regard to important issues
such as substance use and abuse?

This is the perfect example of a teachable moment - a way for parents
to get educated and initiate a conversation with their kids and teens
about drug and alcohol use. Here in Arizona, the average age of first
drug use is just 13 years old, which means we need to start the
conversation early and keep the dialogue going. It's the single most
effective way for us to raise healthy, drug-free kids.

Shelly Mowrey, Phoenix

The writer is with the Arizona affiliate of the Partnership for a
Drug-Free America.