Partnership for Drug-Free America Launch Meth Campaign in Mid-South (Tennessee)

http://www.wreg.com/Global/story.asp?S=4467866


MEMPHIS, TN - Meth is becoming an epidemic among teens. The Partnership for a Drug-Free America is launching a series of public service announcement's to takcle the problem.

"Parents do not understand how bad this drug is, they do not understand how highly addictive it is,"said Dr. John Hill of Lebonheur Children's Hospital. Doctor Hill is one of eight pediatricians in Memphis taking part in the campaign.

"We're all being trained to talk to parents more intelligently, we have learned more about how the drug works and how it impinges on the lives of children," said Hill.

You'll also see David Parnell in one of the PSA's. Parnell grew up in Horn Lake. His face is disfigured after he put a gun to his face and shot himself . Now he's set out to end the tragedy that comes with meth use. Last summer he talked to students at Collierville High School. Parnell said sometimes you have to shock teens into paying attention.

For parents using this drug around kids Doctor hill said you're destroying their lives. "Being around it, the toxic by-products will effect many organ systems, especially the brain," said Hill.

Dr. Hill said medical professionals can do their part but if parents don't get involved this is a lost cause.

"Children are 50 percent likely to use if their parents have talked to them rather than if it were only done by the school, outside agencies or even me," said Hill.

Lisa Benton decided not be shy about the subject of drugs with her 12 year-old son.

"It's out there, they're going to be influenced so tell them and let them be aware before somebody else teaches them the wrong way," said Benton.

Studies show one out of every 12 teens has experimented with meth.

The PSA's will also begin airing in Chattanooga and Knoxville in the coming weeks.