And we’re not talking about cancer or heart disease.

We’re talking about your child’s drug or alcohol use. Teens who use drugs risk damaging their developing minds and bodies – and face the possibility of addiction. How, and when, you respond to your teenager when you suspect or find out he is using drugs could have a serious impact on his future.

When should you take action?
Common sense tells us that addressing a problem early can help keep it from getting out of control and doing serious harm in our lives. This principle also holds true when it comes to drug and alcohol use among kids. Research shows that the earlier a kid uses marijuana or alcohol, the more likely they are to become dependent on drugs or alcohol later in life.

Though use does not always end in addiction, addiction always begins with a decision to use. If you suspect your teenager has tried drugs or alcohol, then you know that your son or daughter is at a critical crossroads.

Experimentation is a big deal -- marijuana is more potent than it was when you were young -- and shouldn’t be accepted as a rite of passage.

What you do matters.

So, even though their drug or alcohol use might feel like the toughest issue you’ve ever faced, addressing it could be the most important thing you do.

Get informed and take action early.

Signed,

American Academy of Pediatrics
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and its member pediatricians dedicate their efforts and resources to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults. The mission of the American Academy of Pediatrics is to attain optimal physical, mental and social health and well-being for all infants, children, adolescents and young adults. To this purpose, the AAP and its members dedicate their efforts and resources. Read Dr. Warren Seigel’s comments from the ONDCP Early Intervention press conference.

American Medical Association
The American Medical Association (AMA) serves as the steward of medicine and leader of the medical profession. The AMA is the national professional organization for all physicians and the leading advocate for physicians and their patients.

Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America
CADCA is a membership-driven organization that gives anti-drug and drug-related violence coalitions technical assistance and support.

Child Welfare League of America
The Child Welfare League of America is the nation's oldest and largest membership-based child welfare organization. They are committed to engaging people everywhere in promoting the well-being of children, youth, and their families, and protecting every child from harm.

National Families In Action
National Families in Action’s mission is to help families and communities prevent drug use among children by promoting policies based on science. The organization publishes many publications and resources to help parents reduce illicit drug use. They also produce www.parentingisprevention.org which gives advice for parents on keeping their kids drug-free and safe.

National Family Partnership
NFP seeks to lead and support our nation's families and communities to nurture the full potential of healthy, drug-free youth. The site provides information on national Red Ribbon Week, an annual prevention event, as well as other prevention resources.

National Fatherhood Initiative
The National Fatherhood Initiative (NFI) serves as a catalyst for engaging America in a public and forthright discussion about the necessity to improve the well-being of children by leading a society-wide movement to promote involved, responsible, and committed fatherhood. NFI encourages and supports family and father-friendly policies by educating and inspiring all fathers through national public awareness campaigns, developing and equipping leaders for state and community-based fatherhood programs, and mobilizing every community and sector in society.

National Medical Association
The NMA promotes the collective interests of physicians and patients of African descent. They serve as the collective voice of physicians of African descent and a leading force for parity in medicine, elimination of health disparities and promotion of optimal health.

National PTA
National PTA is the largest volunteer child advocacy organization in the United States. A not-for-profit association of parents, educators, students, and other citizens active in their schools and communities, PTA is a leader in reminding our nation of its obligations to children.

Parenting Coalition International
Parenting Coalition International supports the professional development needs and interests of parents, parenting practitioners and those working to strengthen families.

Partnership for a Drug Free America
The PDFA is a private non profit non partisan coalition of professionals from the communications industry. Its mission is to reduce demand for illicit drugs in America through media communication.

Visit our comprehensive list of partners that have supported the National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign.