IMPACT Newsletter

October Newsletter - Drug and Alcohol Awareness

Drug & Alcohol Statistics from Centers for Disease Control & Prevention

Drug & Alcohol Statistics from Centers for Disease Control & Prevention

  • Alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco are substances most commonly used by adolescents.
  • By 12th grade, about two-thirds of students have tried alcohol.
  • About half of 9th through 12th grade students reported having used marijuana.
  • Today's marijuana is more potent than ever before.
  • Many vapes contain toxic chemicals/substances and nicotine.
Drug & Alcohol Statistics from Centers for Disease Control & Prevention

How To Tell if My Child is Using Drugs or Alcohol - www.thestandprojectua.org


  1. Changes in physical appearances
  2. Changes in eating and sleeping habits
  3. Changes in school or job performance
  4. Changes in behavior and personality
  5. Changes in friend groups and interests
  6. Physical evidence of drug use

What You Can Do

  • Talk to your child about alcohol and drugs
  • Learn to really listen to your child
  • Help your child with self-confidence
  • Help your child develop strong values
  • Help your child deal with peer pressure
  • Keep your family and home safe
  • Encourage healthy, creative activities

Language Do's and Don'ts When Talking with Your Child



DO be understanding - "I realize you are having a difficult time right now."

DO be firm - "As your parent, I can't allow you to engage in harmful activities."

DO be supportive - "I love you and am here to listen."


DON'T be sarcastic - "Don't think you are fooling me!"

DON'T be accusatory - "You're a liar!"

DON'T be self-pitying - "How could you do this to me?"

TIPS on Talking to Younger Children about Drugs & Alcohol

Meet your child where they are. Start slowly. You could ask your child what they already know about drugs and alcohol. Give them the open space to come to you with questions.


Empower and don't scare. Try to shape any conversation around healthy decision making and your child's overall well-being. Make sure they feel that their choices will not impact their value in your eyes. Engage in conversations about your child's dreams and goals, making good choices, thinking critically about decisions and to trust in your guidance.


Lead by example - children will learn a great deal from adults.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5akBR7k4p0

Community Resources

Who are the IMPACT Counselors?

Who are the IMPACT Counselors?

The IMPACT counseling program is an extension of the MISD counseling department. IMPACT stands for "Individuals Maximizing Positive Advocacy for Children and Teens". They aid campus counselors throughout the district in carrying out their comprehensive school counseling program in accordance with the Texas School Counselor Association. If you have questions about this newsletter or any other school counseling matter, please contact your campus school counselor.
Who are the IMPACT Counselors?