HOSPITAL TRYING TO COMBAT DRUG USE

Teens today are using drugs at a level not seen since the 1970s, an
area expert says.

The age of the average kid who tries drugs is falling.

Teens are vulnerable, Northwest Community Hospital psychologist Mario
Giacomuzzi says.

They're crammed into school buildings, 2,000 or 3,000 of them
together, trying to fit in and feel comfortable at a somewhat awkward
time in their lives.

What should parents do?

"Realize every teenager is at risk today," he said. "No parent wants
to think their kid's using. No parent even wants to think their kid is
at risk. ... But take an active role in your kids' lives. Get to know
your kids. Get to know their friends."

Giacomuzzi, a clinical physiologist certified in addictions counseling
and the director of Northwest Community Hospital's chemical dependency
program, is coordinating an Oct. 4 program aimed at parents, kids and
community members that will take teen drug use beyond the basics.

The program, "Helping Your Adolescent ... Before It's Too Late," will
cover why every teen today is at risk for substance abuse, what can be
done to prevent the problem, how teens get exposed to "club drugs,"
what to do if your teen has a drug problem, how to recognize the signs
and symptoms of substance abuse and how to know whether it's something
to be concerned about.

The free discussion also will clarify some myths about substance abuse
and provide personal stories from two teenagers going through recovery.

"These problems have always been out there," Giacomuzzi said. "They
don't just go away and you can't just ignore them. You have to deal
with these things."

The program will also include a discussion on heroin - the drug
medical examiners said likely caused the death of three area teenagers
this summer.

"Everyone wants to think, 'Well, that's happening out there, sure,'ae"
he said. "But I think maybe the community needs to be a little more
shocked about what's going on. People get shocked when it hits close
to home. That's when it has an effect."

The program, sponsored by the Mental Health Network of Northwest
Community Hospital and Rush Behavioral Health, will run from 7 p.m. to
8:30 p.m. in the Northwest Community Hospital auditorium, 800 W.
Central Road, Arlington Heights.

For more information, call (847) 618-4126.