New parent drug guide follows teen death

Monday 06 January 2014

Advice for parents over drug issues that could affect young people has been updated. It follows the tragic death of 16-year-old Max Blandin last month.

The Health department has updated the advice to include new information on the drugs formerly known as “legal highs”, which were linked to the death of the teenager, who was described by his parents as a free spirit who lived life to the full.

Acting senior public health manager Martin Knight said that parents and guardians had an important role to play in helping young people to make informed decisions and reduce the potential for serious risk and harm, and that they needed accurate information. The booklet also contains fresh contact details for organizations providing support and advice.

“We really want all parents to know about the serious harms and side effects that can be experiences from using some of these new psychoactive substances,” said Mr Knight.

“If mixed with alcohol the side effects of these substances can be particularly pronounced, including extremely negative changes in mood and behaviour.

“We have revised the Parents Guide to Drugs to ensure it contains the latest information about drugs and their effects, as well as offering age-appropriate suggestions and approaches to having discussions on the issue of drugs with children, which we realise can be a difficult and sensitive area."

The guide is available from:

http://www.gov.je/Health/HealthyLiving/AlcoholDrugs/Pages/ParentGuideDrugs.aspx