Depression, isolation, lashing out, insecurity. These are all signs that can easily be dismissed as typical rebellion, or "normal"teen behavior, yet need to be given close attention. Communication, and patience are key. My husband and I talk to our son about the realities of drugs and alcohol and the destruction that is a direct result from their slippery slope. When he begins to isolate, we get him involved with activities. We don't compromise our structured rules when he lashes out.

When he is down, we get him involved with creative projects that help to boost his esteem upon completion. This is his last year before he enters high school, and so far we've been able to guide him away from drugs by providing him with a good foundation, and effective refusal skills, and we made a pact not to compromise these things in any way, as he enters high school. Our child has remained drug and alcohol free and we remain confident he will continue as long as we keep the structure and support with him to include love, honesty, and understanding.