Article for February |
| Posted by Administrator (admin) on May 11 2007 at 9:56 PM |
Love is in the air. Let's just make sure that love is healthy and drug-free.
Healthy relationships are non-threatening, supportive and involve shared responsibility.
That means. . . . .
*touching, kissing, hugging and sexual activity require permission *every person has the right to say no and to change his or her mind *permission is not gained through coaxing, pressuring, force or harassment
Take a moment to do a reality check on your own relationship. Is it respectful, equal, involve listening and communicating? Are you aware of rights, differences and desires of your partner? Do you trust yourself and one another and do you empathize?
Too often, Hands of Hope, a division of Family Service Society, Inc. has found that women and teens in Wabash County are involved in relationships that are hurtful not healthy. As a member of AACTION of Wabash County, Hands of Hope is working with law enforcement, probation, judges and other social service agencies to educate the community.
If your significant other, spouse or dating partner is jealous, possessive or controlling that is not love - that is abuse.
It is also important to be aware of date rape drugs that can easily be slipped in your drink unbeknownst to you.
Some basic information about the more popular drugs is:
*GHB - usually clear, odorless liquid that is easily slipped into a drink. It causes short term amnesia which means a person may not remember what happened while they were under the influence of the drug. It slows down breathing, possible vomiting, leads to unconsciousness, seizures and possibly death.
*Ketamine or Special K - After a slow onset that gradually takes effect, there is disassociation and distorted sense of reality.
*Rohypnol - a very potent drug similar to valium but 10 times more powerful. It resembles aspirin. Sedation occurs within 20 to 30 minutes and lasts four to 10 hours. It effects include extremely relaxed muscles, slowed down psychomotor responses and amnesia. This is considered the "in" drug in high schools and college campuses.
To avoid falling victim to one of these drugs follow these tips:For additional information about Healthy Relationships or Date Rape Drugs or to schedule a presentation call Hands of Hope's Director Linda Wilk at 1-800-434-8973 or email at lwilk@famservices.com
Because we all must do our part to build healthy, respectful relationships!
