The Federal Trade Commission has released a list of 15 questions parents can ask to ensure that the residential program they are considering for their troubled teen will be safe and helpful.

"If the program claims to be licensed, get the name of the state agency that issued the license and contact the agency to verify that the license is current. Often, the licensing will be through a state Department of Health and Human Services or its equivalent. If the program's representative can't provide the name of the licensing agency, consider it a red flag."

Unlicensed programs aren't necessarily bad, but you'll want to check with the state attorney general and the Better Business Bureau to check the program's validity and track record. Also, follow up on any claims the treatment facility makes about accreditation and staff credentials. Source: Federal Trade Commission

Read So You are Considering Residential Treatment for Your Teen: Questions to Ask for more tips.

Labels: licensing, questions, residential_treatment_centers

Recently, the National Institute on Drug Abuse offered the first-ever Drug Facts Chat Day. Teens were invited to submit anonymous questions about anything related to drugs and alcohol. The questions were received and answered by some of the top substance abuse experts in the nation.

"[Q] What are the long term effects of smoking pot [A] There are many long-term effects of smoking marijuana. The use of marijuana can produce adverse physical, mental, emotional and behavioral changes, and, contrary to popular belief, it can be addictive. Marijuana smoke, like cigarette smoke, can harm the lungs. The use of marijuana can impair short-term memory, verbal skills, and judgment, and also distort perception..."

Other questions included, "Why is marijuana a gateway drug?," "Have most teens used marijuana in their life?," and "Can you die from weed?" Source: U.S. News and World Report

Labels: marijuana, questions, substance_abuse