"We have to recognize that this drug problem affects kids everywhere, and we can no longer treat it as an urban problem," said Joseph Califano Jr., president of the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University. He presented the findings to the U.S. Conference of Mayors in Washington.

Researchers analyzed data from federal, state and local sources, including the Department of Health and Human Services, the National Institute of Justice and local police.

The study shows that rural eighth-graders in the past month were:
· Twice as likely to have used amphetamines, including methamphetamines, than those in large metropolitan areas (5.1% of rural teens vs. 2.5% of urban teens).
· 83% more likely to have used crack cocaine.
· 50% more likely to have used cocaine.
· 34% more likely to have smoked marijuana.
· 29% more likely to have drunk alcohol
. 70% more likely to have been intoxicated.
· More than twice as likely to have smoked cigarettes, and nearly five times more likely to have used smokeless tobacco.

The study, billed as the first of its kind to look at the problem by population centers. Experts said rural areas are especially vulnerable to certain drugs: Methamphetamines are manufactured in the countryside because the strong odor can be easily hidden; drug dealers find it easier to operate in small towns; and drug smugglers are moving into rural areas.

The findings "should be a wake-up call," said Howard Simon, spokesman for Partnership for a Drug-Free America.

Support your friend’s strength. Recognize the things that your friend does to take care of themselves. Encourage your friend’s strength and courage. Encourage your friend to do things with you and with other friends. Encourage them to take part in activities outside of their relationship with their partner.

Be non-judgmental. Your friend is confused because they are frightened by the abuse they are experiencing. Even though they are being abused by their partner, they also receive love from their partner. Your friend may break up and get back together with their partner many times. Do not tell them they are wrong for doing that. Express your concern for their safety. Let them know that they are not to blame for the abuse. Don’t encourage them to "work it out" with their partner; this only makes them feel responsible for what has happened to them. Abuse is the sole responsibility of the abuser. Help them see that their partner uses excuses for the violence, then blames the victim.

Help your friend develop a safety plan. Help them explore resources. Help them see a pattern in the abuser’s behavior and to figure out ways to be safe when the abuser is violent.

Help your friend talk to adults to get help. See if they feel comfortable talking to their parents or a school counselor. Offer to go with them to find a counselor or support group.

Accept it - Some things are out of your control and all you can do is accept them and learn from them. Seek helpful advice or support from friends.

Avoid it - Stay away from recurring situations or sources of constant frustration. Remove yourself from the situation, rearrange your surroundings.

Alter it - Communicate your feelings to someone else. Change your feelings or ask someone else to change their behavior.

Adapt to it - Learn to cope with the situation or look at it as an opportunity. Focus on the positive things in your life.

From State Compensation Insurance Fund Newsletter

Additional Ideas in Susie's Chapter: Managing Stress: From Stress Cadet to Successful Leader
in the newly released LEAD NOW or Step Aside

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