Hidden in Plain site

26-February-2022

   
 On Wednesday-23-February Bogota High School hosted a workshop on helping Parents learn about what type of legal and illegal substance available for use  by minors. This was held in the Bogota High School Auditorium and was presented by Kathy Viola of The Center for Alcohol and Drug Resources (TCADR). Before the lecture started, attendees were invited to come on stage and look at a simulated Student’s bedroom. This was intended to show how, and where, Students can hide many items to prevent discovery by an Adult. The main goal was to show how paraphernalia can be made to look like common objects.  Pens, markers,  flash-drives, and even incorporated into clothing items. The display also included items that can be used to hide other controlled substances. These included beverage cans, & bottles, potato chip containers, sports equipment, books, and toys which could have hidden compartments built in. 

  The presentation began with the explanation of brain development in Humans. The chart provided showed that, in Humans, the brain does not become fully developed until a person is in their early 20’s. This is when the prefrontal cortex finishes maturing.  This is the area that is most  involved in controlling impulses and decision-making. Smoking and Alcohol consumption before the ages of  21 or 22 slows, and may even reduce, proper brain growth and development.  Along with other factors included lack of sleep, and poor nutrition can also affect the brain’s development. It was explained that how the use of stimulus can have an effect on Humans.  

   Ms. Viola went on to discuss the wide number of different types of available narcotics. From readily available items such as cigarettes, alcohol and prescription drugs to non regulated  narcotics. In the 20th century companies were shown to have been targeting High School Students, and younger, along with ethnic communities with their advertising. This lead to a ban on cigarettes ads on public media and the use of cartoon images in other types of ads.  Some steps being made include when the  Bogota Council has passed an ordinance limiting the sale of “Nicotine Products” within the Borough. This comes with an increase licensing fee to offer these products for purchase. Signage stating that “Nicotine Products” are only to be sold to anyone over the age of 21 with proper identification. And a large fine for anyone, or business, in violation of the law. Funds from these fees are scheduled to be used to help fund education and treatment groups like the Bogota Advisory Committee on Substance Abuse (BACSA) to aid them with education on ways to prevent drug and alcohol abuse. Along with providing information for anyone who may need help with problems related to drugs and alcohol.

   Another point made by Ms.Viola, is to have Parents become more aware of the choices to Students, no matter what age, that are available. With the idea of just engaging in conversation, either a formal talk, or routine questions of how a Student day is encouraged. This would be a way to learn about what the Student knows and feels about different topics that can affect their development. This is better to be done in a non confrontational way and letting the Student talk about how they feel on the subject, and not have an Adult opinion forced on them.  Another idea presented was to become interested in things they do & believe. This could show a Student that a Parent trying to understand their opinion on these topics themselves.  Also Parents needs to be aware of who their friends are, and keeping an eye out for physical and emotional changes. A Parent should also asked about what their Children want to do with their free time. If a problem seems to be starting, let them know about your concerns, again, in a non-confrontational way, and to be prepared to assist and listen to their feeling. Which should be done by being supportive, as well as being a Parent who wants to protect their Children. 

  Also Ms.Viola mention in case of a scenario of any type overdose occurring what can be done to aid the victim. TCADR has a 24 hour Hotline at 201-589-2976 that can be call, or by text, to aid in finding service and support for addiction with recovery specialist. 

  For more information about The Center for Alcohol and Drug Resources and the programs they offer please visit their website at:

: https://www.tcadr.org/

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