The Oracle: How do I help a friend who is a frequent drug user?

Brenda Stern: This depends on the situation. Your opinion as a friend carries a lot of weight and it does take a lot of courage to try and steer users away from drugs. Of course, there is importance in being a good friend and trying to help others out, but if there is even the slightest chance that you could be tempted to try drugs yourself, you should stay away from these people. Safety is first priority.

TO: I know I won’t get addicted. Why can’t I try drugs?

Stern: Even when taken in small portions, drugs can affect you on physical, spiritual and emotional levels. No one plans for an addiction, and they tend to sneak up on you. Even users who smoke “just a little” find themselves relying on drugs as a crutch, and end up going back again and again for more.

TO: I have an addiction to drinking. How do I stop?

Stern: The first step towards recovery is acceptance of your problem. After acceptance comes asking for help. There are many places where teenagers can find support, and sometimes just knowing that there are other people going through the same thing helps. 12-step meetings, or Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings for young people, are an example of this. These meetings are completely confidential, and shared information will in no way be used against you. Treatment programs and counseling will help put you on the road to recovery.

TO: What happens if the school catches you with weed or alcohol?

Stern: In Palo Alto, students caught either under the influence or in possession of illegal substances or paraphernalia, such as scales, bottles or pipes, will face five days of suspension. The suspension can be reduced by the school reffering you to ACS-ASAP for a three session evaluation for recommendation of the families

TO: Why is the drinking age so old?

Stern: Drugs and alcohol hugely affect the frontal lobe, which is not fully developed in teenagers. The frontal lobe is in charge of making decisions, and deciphering right from wrong. Furthermore, drinking has long-term effects on the human body, and affects the pancreas, liver, brain and heart.

TO: Can I drink responsibly?

Stern: There are other ways to alleviate stress. Whether it is a proper sleep, exercising, balancing your schedule, meditating or just doing something you love, there are always healthier alternatives to the use of alcohol.

You can contact Brenda Stern at (650) 329-4910.