Smith County Safe & Drug Free Schools is providing this information to you as a part of an effort to protect kids from the growing threat of drugs.

Actions Parents Can Take To Raise Drug-Free Kids

It is never too early to prevent your children from trying drugs. Building protective factors, such as letting your child know you care plays an important role in protecting them from drugs.

Take every opportunity to build lines of communication and do things as a family. SPEND TIME TOGETHER. TALK. THEY’LL LISTEN.

• Know your child’s friends. Know their parents. Know what they are up to.
• Educate yourself on the dangers of drugs. Spend time explaining in simple facts to your kids how drugs can hurt them and destroy their dreams and goals.
• If you suspect your child is using drugs, do not ignore it. GET HELP.
• Set limits on what is acceptable behavior. Declare limits-this family does not use drugs, this family does not hang around people who do.
• Enforce limits-If you say no drinking and driving-it applies to parents too. BE CONSISTENT.
• Set a good example. Do not just say the right things, DO THE RIGHT THINGS.

Warning Signs

Be Aware: Look for warning signs and get help before the problem occurs. Your doctor can help. There is no single factor for drug use, but warning signs of a potential problem include:

• drop in academics/grades slipping
• lack of interest in personal appearance
• withdrawal, depression, fatigue
• rebellious behavior
• hostility
• change in friends
• change in eating and sleeping habits
• evidence of drugs or drug paraphernalia (needles, pipes, lighters)

When You Need Help…

24 Hour Assistance – 911

Smith County Sheriff – 601-782-4531

Weems Mental Health – 601-782-9461

Domestic Abuse – 601-428-8821

Drug Hotline – 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

PRIDE – 1-800-241-7946

Child Abuse Hotline – 1-800-222-8000

National Runaway Switchboard – 1-800-621-4000

Ms Bureau of Narcotics – 1-800-222-7646

Character Hospital Hotline – 1-800-962-2180

Smith County Students Are Special They don’t need drugs to soar!

Tammy Ashley – Drug Free Coordinator For Smith County Schools
Phone: 601-782-4211 
E-Mail: tammy.ashley@smithcountyschools.net