McGraw-Hill Health 2005

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Macmillan/McGraw-Hill Health Grade 4
Grade 4
e-Journal

Health Online
Finding Help

Step 1. Questions

We do not live in a perfect world and no one can be expected to be perfect. People make mistakes but that does not mean their lives have to be ruined. When someone becomes addicted to a drug they need help. With the proper care they can learn how to solve their problems without turning to drugs. How can people find the help they need when drugs are taking control of their lives? Where can they find the support they need to believe in themselves again?



Use this e-journal activity as an opportunity to research information that could change someone’s life. The following questions will start you on your way:
  • Why do people start using drugs? To find a solution to a problem it is often helpful to start with the reasons why it happens.
  • If a person does abuse drugs, where can they turn for help?
  • What can family and friends do to support a person who abuses drugs?
  • What other questions do you have about drug abuse?

First, visit the Web sites listed in Step 2 to research the answers to these questions. Take notes in the note-taking boxes. You may also visit other approved Web sites, or research drug abuse in encyclopedias and other resources at the library.



Then, follow Steps 3 and 4 to write your report.


Step 2. Research

Research answers for the questions you were asked in Step 1. Visit these Web sites. Take notes about them on this page, too!

Al-Anon/Alateen
For friends and families of alcoholics, this organization helps people whose lives are affected by someone else’s drinking. Learn about the twelve steps to recovery used by Alcoholic’s Anonymous. When help is needed, anyone can click on his or her state to find a local chapter of Al-Anon/Alateen.
Take Notes:



drughelp.org
This site is a service of the American Council for Drug Education. It offers information on different drugs and treatment for abusers. Learn the signs and symptoms of drug use and guidelines for helping people who are abusers. There is also information on long term effects of drug use.
Take Notes:



It’s My Life: Drug Abuse: Getting It Straight
Learn some steps you can take to help someone who is abusing drugs. Increase your awareness by reading the discussions about different types of drugs.


Take Notes:



Additional Sites

Alcohol & Drug Information
This site from the United States Department of Health and Human Services offers information on how to recognize drug and alcohol abuse, and how to help. There is a state-by-state listing of hotlines where people can call for help and information, as well as a resource and referral guide that lists organizations offering more information
Take Notes:



Go to Step 3 or Save My Notes


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