Northeast Texas Coalition Against Substance Abuse

By Lauren Barnes with the Northeast Texas Coalition Against Substance Abuse The days of D.A.R.E. and “just say no” are behind us, and experts say teens need scientific facts about drugs and alcohol to be better prepared to make the right decisions. However, teens are receiving incorrect messages about drugs and alcohol from their friends, television and social media. The Northeast Texas Coalition Against Substance Abuse is working to ensure youth in Daingerfield receive the correct facts, but we can’t do it alone. We need parents to talk to their teens about common drug and alcohol myths and empower them with the facts so they can make healthy decisions. Myth: Drinking is a rite of passage and everyone is doing it. Only one in five East Texas 7th-12th graders are current users of alcohol, according to the 2014 Texas School Survey.

The Northeast Texas Coalition Against Substance Abuse will be hosting their parent meeting at Daingerfield High School Thursday, Jan. 21, in an effort to raise parent’s awareness to the problem of underage drinking. Parents will be given facts and learn practical ways to talk to their teens about underage drinking. They will be provided with resources to take home, and learn valuable information that any parent should know. There will be a door prize for those in attendance, and students from Daingerfield High School whose parents attend will be treated to a pizza party the next day. The free event will be held at the high school cafeteria, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., and is open to the public, as well.

To continue reading this article, purchase the January 14th edition of the Steel Country Bee, or go to our online e-edition at: http://www.etypeservices.com/Daingerfield%20BeeID312/default.aspx

Underage drinking is a problem that effects every community. It is also a problem that can be conquered, especially when the community works together. The Northeast Texas Coalition Against Substance Abuse is making strides in Daingerfield to that end. There are several aspects to consider when attempting to curb any issue like underage drinking. There must be education, not only for students, but for parents and the community as well. There also must be involvement from different organizations throughout the community, including faith-based groups, businesses, and of course the schools. The Northeast Texas Coalition Against Substance Abuse is actively working in each of these areas to raise awareness and education about underage drinking in Daingerfield. The best way to educate students on the dangers of underage drinking, is to have students relay the message. Peer Pressure is not always a bad thing.