Be Proactive this Summer with Tips from the National Drug Council
Summer break is finally here and for teens, this means no homework, loads more free time and less adult supervision. For your teen, however, it can also mean higher chances of an increased opportunity for situations to arise where peer pressure can lead to first-time drug or alcohol use. Do you have a plan in place to help your teen stay safe and sober during this summer vacation? Be proactive in your approach by using the following 6 helpful tips! Find constructive ways to keep your teen occupied: Sign your teen up for camp, vacation bible school or summer activities. In doing so they will have the opportunity to enjoy their vacation with their peers in a safe, supervised environment. Encourage teens to get a summer job or perform community service: Whether paid or voluntary, part-time or full-time jobs give teens an opportunity to gain real-world experience and independence, while keeping them supervised and active. Check-in often: Check-in with your teen regularly throughout the day, making certain that you are aware of where they are and with whom at all times. Have an open conversation: Talking to your child about drugs is a tough subject and most parents aren’t quite sure how to approach the topic. We encourage you to keep an open dialogue with your teen even if you don’t believe your child will ever try drugs or alcohol. Remember, you want to make it absolutely clear that you do NOT approve of your child using these substances under any circumstances! Be sure to leave the opportunity for discussion open and make certain your teen feels comfortable talking to you about anything. Set a good example: If you do not want your teen using, then you shouldn’t either. Don’t keep alcohol or tobacco in your home and keep your prescription drugs out of reach. Home inventory: Carry out a home inventory on what you have around your house that could potentially pose a risk or be a temptation for experimentation. It could be alcohol, tobacco or even prescription medications. Teens are more likely to abuse substances that are easily accessible to them. For a complete list of the summer camps and activities for children and teens pick up your free copy of the following magazines in your local supermarkets or visit them online: The Cayman New Resident Magazine http://www.caymannewresident.com/kids-summer-camps and/or the Cayman Parent Magazine at http://www.caymanparent.com/print-edition. Additionally you can visit our website www.ndc.ky or contact us at info@ndc.ky or call 949-9000 for further information. Have a safe and enjoyable summer vacation!
Talk Early, Talk Often: Parents Can Make a Difference in Teen Alcohol Use
One of the best ways to help kids avoid issues with alcohol and drugs is to talk with them. During the month of April the National Drug Council, along with organisations around the world will focus its efforts on Under Age Drinking as part of observing Alcohol Awareness Month. The efforts will embrace the theme, Talk Early, Talk Often: Parents Can Make a Difference in Teen Alcohol Use. Each of us has the power to make a difference in reducing underage drinking, and it begins with speech. It’s never too early to start talking with kids about this topic, and the types of conversations you’ll have will change as your child grows. So how do you begin? Set the tone. Start an open dialogue about alcohol and drugs. Children become curious about drugs and alcohol from an early age. Teen conversations can be difficult, but what you say matters a great deal to them. Be prepared. Kids will notice when a parent has a glass of wine or beer at home and will question your actions. Being responsible with your own use of alcohol is teaching them an important lesson. Establish yourself as a resource. It’s important for your children to know that they can count on you for answers to their questions. Listen with an open mind and equip yourself with both the information and strategies for answering tough questions. Words and actions can make a positive difference in the lives of others. Every day, parents, caregivers, educators, and community leaders in the Cayman Islands can make a difference by having conversations with youth about substance use and by modeling healthy choices and behaviours. Register for or organise one of our Parents as Preventers workshops for a group during the month of April. If you would like more information on starting and continuing these important conversations contact us on 949-9000, send an email to info@ndc.ky or visit us at www.ndc.ky.
The Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey (CISDUS) 2016 – CYCLE 8, Fieldwork Assistants Required
Over the past 16 years the National Drug Council (NDC) has conducted the Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey (CISDUS). The NDC is preparing to conduct Cycle Eight (8) of the CISDUS scheduled to take place from February 29th through March 17, 2016. The Cayman Islands Student Drug Survey (CISDUS) is an ongoing study of the behaviours, attitudes and values of high school students. These studies describe the extent and patterns of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs used among students in grades 7 to 12/13 across the Islands and contribute to a better understanding of both current and changing rates of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs of abuse. Information about alcohol, tobacco and other drugs of abuse as well as prevalence rates is usually gathered through epidemiological surveys, as the Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey. Are you interested and able to volunteer? Community involvement is essential in the administration of this survey and we are in need of fieldwork assistants. Ideally, we require approximately 80 fieldwork assistants to enable us to collect the data efficiently and in accordance with best practices. Training will be provided for all volunteers. Individuals interested will be required to volunteer approximately 1 ½ hours during the weeks of February 29th through March 17th, 2016. Please contact us on info@ndc.ky or call 949-9000 for further information on the dates and times of training sessions.
NDC to Expand its Designated Driver Programme for 2016
Now in its fifteenth year, the National Drug Council’s holiday campaign seeks to expand by encouraging consumers to take a socially responsible approach to drinking throughout the year. This year’s successful two-tier programme featured a Designated Driver Programme in partnership with 26 local bars and restaurants. Its’ complement, the Purple Ribbon Bus Programme captured the sponsorship of seven local businesses and offered free transportation to an estimated one thousand persons on New Year’s Eve. [blockquote]“Our sponsors are committed to making a difference by supporting socially responsible programmes. A special thank you to Reid’s Premier Tours, DART Cayman Islands, Jacques Scott Group, Cayman National, High Impact Media, Greenlight RE, ECAY, and the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service.” [blockquote-footer] said Brenda Watson, Programme Manager.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] The proposed 2016 Designated Driver programme will run throughout the year for Grand Cayman and the Sister Islands. The focus will be on destination and community-based events: Easter weekend, festivals and boating activities. The National Drug Council will continue its work in server training to ensure safe and sober designated driving. [blockquote]”Social responsibility is a huge priority for us. Expanding the Designated Driver programme will heighten awareness and promote responsible drinking which is one of our core values,” [blockquote-footer] said Joan West-Dacres, Director of the National Drug Council.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] According to statistics from the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, there were no DUI’s recorded this New Year’s Eve, an astounding result. Stay connected; learn more about the Designated Driver and Purple Ribbon Bus programmes at www.ndc.ky and visit us on facebook https://www.facebook.com/NDCCayman/. For information on becoming a sponsor please contact Mrs. Brenda Watson at info@ndc.ky.
Ride Home Safely on the Purple Ribbon Bus this New Years Eve
The National Drug Council (NDC) is once again pleased to announce that the Purple Ribbon Bus service will run this New Year’s Eve, 31st December 2015 from 9 pm to 4 am. The Purple Ribbon Bus service has been made possible through the generous sponsorship of Dart, Ecay, High Impact Media, Greenlight RE, Jacques Scott Group Ltd. and Cayman National Bank. This year marks fifteen (15) years since the inception of the programme, a partnership between the NDC and local organizations to provide the Designated Driver Programme and the New Year’s Eve Purple Ribbon Bus service during the festive Holiday Season. Over the years, thousands of revelers have utilized the free bus service on New Year’s Eve, which was established with the aim of reducing the number of drunk driving incidents on our roads. Despite the legislation, the increased patrols by the police and public education and awareness campaigns, drunk driving remains a serious issues in the Cayman Islands. Before getting behind the wheel after having a few, people need to consider the many reasons why you should not. Alcohol impairs motor skills and this equates to people being less competent drivers than when they are sober, alcohol reduces your judgment and the time in which one reacts to a situation. Don’t forget drunk driving wrecks lives, can lead to arrest and imprisonment, loss of one’s driver’s license, and can ultimately be responsible for taking someone’s life or your own. Thank you to the generous support of this year’s sponsors; Dart, Ecay, High Impact Media, Greenlight RE, Jacques Scott Group Ltd. and Cayman National Bank, who have already signed on in support of the “Purple Ribbon Bus” this year. The NDC is still seeking some additional support to ensure that there is a full complement of free buses operating beginning at 9 pm on New Year’s Eve. There are currently seven (7) busses secured with a goal of ten (10) buses which will ensure shorter wait times and more efficient service. The busses will run regular routes from West Bay to Bodden Town and to East End and North Side hourly between the hours of 9 pm and 4 am. This year in addition to reflective magnetic signage the Purple Ribbon Buses will also be allowed to have purple lights. We aim to ensure that our busses will be highly visual to persons wishing to use the free New Year’s Eve bus service. This was all made possible under a special arrangement with the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service. [blockquote][blockquote-footer]NDC’s Programme Manager, Brenda Watson expressed, [/blockquote-footer] “We would like to change the culture of our people to one where drinking and driving is no longer the norm, but rather a culture where our people begin to plan ahead and designate a driver, or on nights such as this they utilise the FREE bus service. Whether you’re in North Side or West Bay, we anticipate having buses every 10 to 15 minutes running a regular route. Just look for a bus with purple lights, flag it down and ride to your destination for free! We are certainly very thankful to the Deputy Commissioner for granting permission for us to use the purple lights; this takes the service to a more highly visual level. Our busses already make continued stops at all bus stops, all major bars and restaurants and we are encouraging residents and visitors alike to use this free and safe service.”[/blockquote] [blockquote][blockquote-footer]Director Joan West-Dacres states, [/blockquote-footer]“We are happy for the continued support of some of our annual sponsors as well as the new sponsors and their pledge of financial support to ensure that the “Purple Ribbon Buses” are made available again this holiday season. We encourage others to sponsor this initiative and help the NDC and your communities have a safe and happy holiday season. Every family looks forward to celebrating the holidays with our family and friends but our celebrations shouldn’t include drinking and driving!! Plan ahead and ensure you have a safe ride home. Remember that preventing drinking and driving is everyone’s business and we all need to play our role. Don’t drink and drive!”[/blockquote] Designated Driver Programme 2015 Several local restaurants, bars and clubs will participate in the Designated Driver Programme again this year. This programme is simple; persons who identify themselves as a Designated Driver to their server can receive free non-alcoholic beverages all evening, and will be given a purple wristband bracelet identifying them as the designated driver. The NDC is grateful for the participating establishments for doing their part to reduce drunk driving during this holiday season.
Evaluation Report for The Bridge Foundation
In March 2014, the Ministry of Home Affairs asked the National Drug Council to facilitate an evaluation of The Bridge Foundation. This evaluation was conducted to include, but was not limited to; determining any impact the program has had on current and past participants; helping to prioritise resources; providing information on the effects, possible limitations, or strengths of the program; addressing any needs for additional or continued funding; indicating any potential problems that can avert problems and recommending improvements. The Bridge Foundation is a non-profit, non-governmental and non-denominational, Section 80 Company Registered in the Cayman Islands. It provides transitional (or “halfway house”) accommodation to recovering addicts for alcohol and other drugs. Their Mission is to provide Transitional Housing facilities founded upon value for money, transparency and accountability. This is accomplished through public and private donations which they actively solicit. The Bridge Foundation promotes sober structured living, educational opportunities, life skills development, self-determination, independence, physical and mental well-being and spiritual development. There is no doubt that the halfway houses established by the Bridge Foundation are critical and importantly positioned within the continuum of care for treatment and provide a safe and supportive transitional environment to individuals in need of such housing. Studies and literature have continuously underpinned the need for such initiatives in the process of reintegration. In the Cayman Islands The Bridge Foundation (BF) assumes the third step/stage in the intervention process for clients in need of this service (stage one is identifying and accepting that problematic drug use exist – stage two is successfully completing treatment – and stage three is participating in a transitional living environment to support re-integration). In another context, stage one can be release from incarceration – stage two is placement and success from residential treatment – and stage three is participating in a 24-hour transitional living environment to support re-integration). Essentially it is recognized that transitional living is a key ingredient in any successful programme whose objectives include, reducing recidivism (criminal or drug use), promoting re-socialization and reintegration and improving prospects for employment. Transitional/half-way housing is a critical component of recovery and very often a missing component in our communities. “Understanding the need for safe housing for both men and women in the Cayman Islands, The Bridge Foundation is committed to facilitating the transition of men and women from treatment programmes and other institutions successfully back into our communities. We are pleased with the decision of the Planning Authorities who visited and met with us and the subsequent removal of the enforcement which will now allow for the continuation of services at the women’s house,” says Bod Volinsky, Operations Manager. The evaluation recognises the strength of the Bridge Foundation that includes the following: An acceptable management structure A named Board of Directors for the Foundation that provides the strategic direction, oversight and provides for accountability The operations are in conformity with acceptable standards of operation. There are set residency guidelines and expectations, as well as confidentiality requirements that conform to international standards, such as: the clients, must be drug and alcohol-free; subjected to random drug and alcohol testing at any time, with or without cause; attendance at weekly house meetings; be employed or actively seeking employment, etc. The accounts of the BF are audited annually and a report submitted for scrutiny. From a Governance perspective, one of the hallmarks of this programme is its transparency policy …”the policy of the company in relation to its financial affairs are that; (1) nobody should profit from its activities, and (2) interested parties should be entitled to see, and if necessary have explained to them its then-current financial conditions and details of its income and expenditure. At the same time, the evaluation report acknowledges the challenges that the programme faces, which include: Public transportation Providing for and sustaining the food voucher component of the programme. Leased properties as opposed to owned Inconsistent revenue stream inhibits long-range financial planning. Possible policy complications regarding service provision. Stereotypes and prejudices possibly complicating service provision Expansion may create an additional burden We know from the data that many of our offenders have a history of drug and alcohol-related offences. In addition, over 75% of offenders are Caymanian or have Caymanian Status that signals a return back into communities in the Cayman Islands. We must therefore accept and ensure that we are seeking to provide a continuum of care and services that are going to support the transition back to the community and reduce re-offending. The NDC is pleased to have been able to facilitate this process evaluation and looks forward to continued work with the Bridge Foundation and the ongoing monitoring and oversight of such programmes and processes. For more information about the National Drug Council, check us out at www.ndc.ky and like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/NDCCayman! If you have any questions/queries email us at info@ndc.ky or call 949-9000. For more information on the Bridge Foundation, contact us by phone (345) 926-4053 and email thebridgefoundationcayman@gmail.com
Be Safe this Summer!
The Cayman Islands are well-known for their climate which offers great outdoor activities residents can enjoy year-round. Summertime is simply that time of year when you can enjoy the Islands’ natural beauty with family and friends. Excursions of underwater adventures on the Submarine or glass-bottom boat, wave running, kayaking, boat charters, trips around one of our islands, paddle boarding, or just an afternoon at the beach, are just a few of the outdoor activities one can enjoy during the summer. While many people reach for a cold beverage during the hot summer weather, perhaps already knowing the health benefits of keeping hydrated, what you may not know is that whether you are boating, swimming or diving, fun in the water and alcohol just don’t mix. Alcohol impairs judgment, balance, vision and coordination and is not a good combination with water sports. A single drink can impact your ability to observe and react; two important skills that are necessary in the event of an emergency. The consumption of alcohol can cause problems with swimming and diving. When under the influence of alcohol persons are not able to accurately judge what is safe and thus can get themselves into dangerous and even life-threatening situations. When boating, the addition of wind, sun, noise, and motion can intensify the effects of the alcohol and result in a hazard for the driver and the passengers which include falls on or overboard, collisions with other boats or other watercrafts, a higher risk of stumbling at the dock resulting in bruises, cuts and falls. The combination of alcohol, heat and outdoor recreational activities poses a serious health implication for older adults, individuals with medical conditions, or those on medication. We recommend packing the following to keep hydrated: plenty of water, juices and noncaffeinated soda when preparing for a long day at the beach or when participating in outdoor recreational activities. If your summer plans include the consumption of alcoholic beverages, consider the following seven safety tips and risks of mixing summer fun with any amount of alcohol; If you drive, do not drink; if you drink, do not drive. There is no safe level of alcohol for drivers because everyone reacts differently to alcohol on different occasions. If you are going out with others, decide beforehand who will be the designated driver. Never drink and pilot a boat of any kind. The same things that make drinking and driving dangerous can be as deadly on the water as they are on land. Boating, windsurfing, wave running and jet-skiing can all be dangerous to anyone who has been drinking. If you are riding in a boat, remember that alcohol will impair your balance and increase your chances of falling overboard. This danger, compounded by alcohol’s effects on your swimming ability, can be fatal. Do not swim or dive if you have been drinking. Remember that alcohol will inhibit your swallowing and breathing reflexes, both of which are necessary for swimming. In addition, drinking affects your ability to judge distances and may lead you to swim too far out in the ocean. Eat before and during occasions when you are drinking — eating will slow alcohol’s effects. Feel free to refuse alcohol for any reason, regardless of pressure or encouragement to drink. Do not drink if you are a child or adolescent. For anyone under 18, alcohol is an illegal drug. While the summer boasts of a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation, when mixed with alcohol, these activities can become dangerous for both youth and adults. Weigh the risks and choose responsibly. Check us out at www.ndc.ky and like us on facebook https://www.facebook.com/NDCCayman! If you have any questions/queries email us at info@ndc.ky or call 949-9000.
NDC Website Re-Launch
Looking for accurate answers to your drug or alcohol questions? Want to know what the Cayman Islands Law States as it pertains to the NDC? Are you looking for information on TIPS training? Interested in finding out who won this year’s National Drug Facts Week Poster Competition? The launch of our enhanced website offers quick and easy access to essential drug and alcohol information as it relates to the Cayman Islands. The website is part of our organisation’s ongoing efforts to enhance the quality and availability of information for teens, parents, educators and employers. [blockquote]“We are very excited at the National Drug Council as we have been hard at work on bringing the public a newly updated website. The website went live on 16th May 2014 and we are very pleased with the results. We encourage you to visit our site and we welcome your feedback!” [blockquote-footer] says Programme Manager Mrs. Brenda Watson. [/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] The website’s user-friendly nature provides visitors to the site with more efficient access to the organisation’s resources. Other revisions include information on Youth to Youth, National Drug Facts Week Poster Competition entries and winning posters for 2014, volunteer application forms, an online survey, resource/referral information. You can take a try at the true and false questions on our home page!! access the 2012 Cayman Islands Drug Uses Survey Briefs, and the National Drug Council Law Revision 2003, as well as other important and exciting information. Check us out at www.ndc.ky and like us on facebook https://www.facebook.com/NDCCayman! If you have any questions/queries email us at info@ndc.ky or call 949-9000.
Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey Underway
Currently, the National Drug Council is conducting the 7th Cycle of the Cayman Islands Student Drug Survey (CISDUS). This survey is one of a series of focused reports whereby data is collected, compiled and published by the National Drug Council. These studies describe the extent and patterns of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs used among students in grades 7 to 12 across the Islands and contribute to a better understanding of both current and changing rates of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use. The data from the survey allows those who are dealing with the effects of substance abuse in our community to appropriately allocate resources as well as continue to give those working with young people a base for preparing and improving programmes directed toward our youth. [blockquote]”The survey is off to a good start, we have some returning volunteers as well as a number of new volunteers who display enthusiasm and a high level of commitment for this project.” [blockquote-footer] stated Mrs. Luisa McLaughlin, Research and Information Officer, National Drug Council.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] In reading the comments volunteers have provided thus far I can share their thoughts and feelings of the experience as being: “Well planned and organized” “Confident the information gathered will help guide the NDC in identifying current trends among our young people” “Grateful to have had the experience to assist” “Good as the students were exceptionally well behaved” “Very detailed and useful tool for gathering information” “Overall a great experience”. On behalf of the National Drug Council we would like to thank all of our volunteers for their time and assistance in this initiative. It is with the continued high level of support and commitment we received from individuals in our community that make it possible for our organization to administer the survey in an efficient and timely manner. For information on how to become a volunteer, copies of our briefs or questions/queries please contact us at 949-9000 or email: info@ndc.ky or visit us at www.ndc.ky.
The Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey (CISDUS) 2014 – CYCLE 7, Fieldwork Assistants Required
Over the past 14 years the National Drug Council (NDC) has conducted the Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey (CISDUS). The NDC is preparing to conduct Cycle seven (7) of the CISDUS scheduled to take place from April 28th through May 9th 2014. The Cayman Islands Student Drug Survey (CISDUS) is an ongoing study of the behaviours, attitudes and values of high school students. These studies describe the extent and patterns of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs used among students in grades 7 to 12/13 across the Islands and contribute to a better understanding of both current and changing rates of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs of abuse. Information about alcohol, tobacco and other drugs of abuse as well as prevalence rates is usually gathered through epidemiological surveys, as the Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey. Are you interested and able to volunteer? Community involvement is essential in the administration of this survey and we are in need of fieldwork assistants. Ideally, we require approximately 80 fieldwork assistants to enable us to collect the data efficiently and in accordance with best practices. Training will be provided for all volunteers. Individuals interested will be required to volunteer approximately 1 ½ hours during the weeks of April 28th through May 9th 2014. Please contact us on info@ndc.ky or call 949-9000 for further information on the dates and times of training sessions.
Positively Influencing your Child
Alcohol has remained the most commonly reported drug used by adolescents in the Cayman Islands. According to our most recent Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey (CISDUS) 2012, 60.6% (1,775 students) reported having had a drink at least once in their lifetime. From this percentage, 53.6% (951 students) reported that their parents had spoken with them about the importance of not using alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. Additionally, only 39.4% (699 students) reported that their parents had spoken with them about their experiences with alcohol and other drugs when they were young. We encourage you to talk to your children early and to become the greatest positive influence your child may ever have in their lifetime. As a parent or guardian we can’t always control the powerful messages our child may already be receiving from peers, the media, the World Wide Web, and perhaps even from our own unconscious behavior but we can make a difference by preparing them. We can begin the process by using some of these basic tips below. 1. Communicate Talking to our children about topics such as alcohol use is certainly one topic most parents find difficult to discuss, even when parents have a clear “no drug and alcohol use policy.” While alcohol is considered a drug it is legal for those over the age of 18 to use responsibly. As a society we are at a point where socially alcohol is widely available and acceptable, these factors on their own makes alcohol one of the most dangerous drugs. While the statistics show that some parents are having conversations with their children, the number of students reporting alcohol use remains high. With 53% of students reporting that their parents had discussed the importance of not using alcohol, tobacco and other drugs and 39% reporting that their parents conveyed their own personal experiences with alcohol and other drugs when they were young; it is important to note that a blanket statement or our personal experiences is not enough. We must include crucial information about drugs and alcohol when speaking with our children. Remember we can positively influence our children by setting good examples; our children are constantly listening to what we say and watching what we do even when we don’t notice. Do you know what unconscious messages we convey to our child/children? When hosting a party or casual evening, which may include alcohol, have we been responsible hosts and provided non-alcoholic beverages for guests as an alternative choice? How often have we made casual comments about needing a drink to relax or deserving a strong drink after a stressful day at work? Instead we must demonstrate positive ways to handle stress such as listening to music, going for a walk or some other form of relaxation. Avoid having our children serving drinks or getting an alcoholic beverage from the fridge. Alcohol should be treated as a risky substance and not be casually handled by minors. We encourage you to start the conversation and let your child know that they can approach you on any subject. Give them the assurance that you will always give them a caring and honest response. When you establish a relationship with your child they will be more likely to come to you for help first. Let’s open the lines of communication with our children. 2. Provide the Basics Begin by establishing clear boundaries for your family when it comes to alcohol. We often risk placing our children in dangerous situations by concealing information about alcohol, other drugs and the law. Let your message be clear, help them understand the law; drinking and smoking is prohibited to those under the age of 18 in the Cayman Islands. If there is alcohol in your home it is your responsibility to let your children know your policy on drinking, be firm on the boundaries, the legal drinking age and consumption in moderation. This is an ideal opportunity to talk about the effects of alcohol on the brain and body of a growing child so they are aware of the risks. Confirm that the parties your child attends are chaperoned and that alcohol or other drugs will not be available. Do not be afraid to say “no” to your child if you are in doubt. Get to know your child’s friends and their parents and share your family’s policy so that the message is clear. 3. Stop and Pay Attention Seize the opportunity, even if it means you need to put other responsibilities on hold. Our children are busy people; they’re always on the go, from educational, extracurricular to social activities. Reach out and show your child that their life and the decisions they make are important to you. When they voice their concerns and ask questions make the time to listen and ensure you engage them fully by limiting outside interruptions. The result is when your child decides to approach you, they know you will give them your undivided attention. 4. Get Your Child Ready! In just a few minutes you can prepare your child by role-playing / sharing some real-life situations with them. Different strategies work for different children when it comes to refusing alcohol. You know your child best; find what is most comfortable for your child. Some may find it helps to say no without giving an explanation, while others think offering a reason works better. Some examples that may help include: “It’s illegal and we could get into serious trouble” “I’ve made a promise to stay drug and alcohol-free,” “I have an important game tomorrow,” “My parents would ground me,” “A family member died in an alcohol-related accident, so I’d rather not” or “I can have fun without it, trust me” Teach your child that it is entirely possible to enjoy a party just as much or more when they don’t drink. Rest assured that if you follow these simple steps when friends or others approach your child they will be prepared to recognize and handle the situation
Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey 2012
Trends in Alcohol Use by Students What are the facts? Have trends changed in recent years? Does Binge drinking really exist? At what age is alcohol first used? As a parent, what should I recognize? Alcohol remained the most reported common drug used by adolescents in the Cayman Islands according to the Student Drug Use Surveys of 2012 a survey carried out on middle and high school students in the Cayman Islands. Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey 2012 indicates; About six of every ten students (60.6%) reported that they had an alcoholic beverage at some time in their life. A quarter of students (25.8%) reported drinking alcohol only on social events Almost a quarter of students (22.8%) used alcohol for the first time at some point during the year prior to the survey. The mean age of first use overall for alcoholic beverages was 12 years of age. Not many students felt that drinking alcoholic beverages ‘sometimes’ was very harmful. Of those students that use alcohol, 19.5% reported getting it from friends while a high proportion (18.0%), reported drinking at other social events. The majority (58.9%) of students reported that it was ‘easy’ or ‘very easy’ to obtain alcohol. Overall, 16.0% of students indicated binge drinking (14.8% of males and 16.8% of females). About one of every six students (14.7%) reported that they were introduced to alcohol by a friend. Students were also asked how they usually get their alcohol. Of those who drank alcohol, about 19.5% reported they got it from friends, 13.0% got it from parents, 9.4% got it from other relatives, 8.1% by “other” ways, 7.4% from buying it in the shop, 5.0% from brother/sister, and the remaining 1.4% obtained it from street dealers. Are these findings relevant? The CISDUS employs a complete census of students enrolled in grades 7 to 12. In 2012, 2,928 students in all private and public schools were asked to complete anonymous, self-administered questionnaire. The CISDUS report primarily emphasizes the prevalence of substance use, i.e., the percentage of students who report using a given drug during the 12 months before the survey. It is important to note that prevalence does not imply regular, frequent or problematic use, but it is an important first-order epidemiological indicator of the size of the population that has at minimum, tried a substance. What should I recognize as a parent? What are the indicators parents should look for? Does gender, race, grade, ethnicity play a part in alcohol use? How can parents get informed? National Drug facts week (NDFW) is a health observance week for teens that aims to shatter the myths about drugs and drug abuse. Through community based-events and activities NDC works along with its partners to encourage teens to get factual answers from scientific experts about drugs and drug abuse. The survey indicated that about 60.6% of all students surveyed reported lifetime use which did not significantly vary by gender (59.3% of males vs. 62.4% of females); however, females are reported more likely to use alcohol. The survey further indicates more than half (53%) of all students reported no substance abuse at all in 2012.