DRUG FORUM OPEN TO ALL PARENTS

It's not easy to explain the lure of drugs to teenagers, or what
exactly happens to their brains physiologically if they succumb.

Andrea G. Barthwell hopes to clear some of the confusion and give
parents guidelines on ways to steer their children from drugs.

The former deputy drug czar under President Bush will present "Risky
Behavior: What's at Stake and How to Prevent It" at 7 p.m. Tuesday in
Glen Ellyn.

The free session, open to all DuPage County parents, will be held in
the Glenbard West auditorium, 670 Crescent Blvd., Glen Ellyn. There's
an hourlong discussion group for parents starting at 6 p.m.

Barthwell plans to talk to parents about why teens are attracted to
drugs, what are the ramifications of using them, and to dispel common
myths about drugs.

"Based on her research, her expertise, she really has what is the
latest up-to-date implications on drug use in our teenagers," said
Gilda Ross, District 87 student and community projects
coordinator.

The workshop topics include:

Explaining how false belief marijuana is harmless and not addictive
contribute to its use and dependence.

Explaining brain reactions to marijuana, alcohol and other
drugs

Citing evidence for increased potency of today's drugs and
relationship to risky behavior.

Describing variables to experimentation among youth and ways to
prevent risk-taking behavior among teens.