DRUGS, ALCOHOL AND YOUR CHILDREN

Straightforward, common-sensical advice on how parents can help children (elementary-school age to adulthood) who've become drug or alcohol abusers while, and, at the same time, keep the family on an even keel. Youcha and Seixas (coauthors, Children of Alcoholism, 1985) list the danger signals (a new ""wild"" set of friends, mood swings, etc.) and the psychological and physical damage caused by various commonly used drugs. They reveal how to determine whether a child has become a user, and demonstrate right and wrong ways of communicating with young substance-abusers. They also supply sources of help, from school counselors to residential treatment centers; cite situations that call for understanding and support or, conversely, for ""toughlove""; suggest what to do when police are involved; explain how to protect younger children, and how to enlist schools and other parents in fighting substance abuse. Standard stuff, but readable, compendious, and informative.