The U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
interviewed more than 230,000 young adults from 2002 to 2012. It found that on
an average June or July day, more than 11,000 teens try alcohol for the first
time, while first-time alcohol use during the rest of the year is about
5,000-8,000.  Drug-Free Tennessee has long warned youth and adults alike on the
dangers of drug abuse, including alcohol abuse. During the summer, DFT is
reminding parents to help their kids with drug-free activities so they stay
safe and healthy.  There are infinite ideas for safe, healthy activities kids can do
during summer from sports, swimming, biking, attending or hosting cookouts,
hiking, and more. Some ideas can be found at kidshealth.org, including a
breakdown for interests by grade level.  International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
occurs on June 26 each year and was created by the UN General Assembly in
December 1987 to encourage all sectors of society to work together to tackle
drug abuse and addiction. Drug-Free Tennessee has hosted virtual resources throughout 2020 at
drugfreetn.org and has continued this year with audio-visual messages and
videos aimed at helping people steer clear of drug abuse and addiction. The
organization has also long offered virtual learning resources and free
materials to all educators wanting to help people learn the truth about drugs.
Resources are available free of charge through drugfreeworld.org.  Drug-Free Tennessee
distributes the Truth About Drugs booklet, which cover all basic side effects
of drugs, common street names, and how to recognize when you are being
persuaded by a dealer. DFT also has a range of award winning Public Service
Announcements and an award winning feature length documentary detailing the
dangers of drugs and addiction. To learn more or to order booklets or view the
videos, visit drugfreetn.org and drugfreeworld.org.