Current Topics in Review Andrea M. Babkie, Associate Editor Accessing Substance Abuse Prevention Programs for Schools

In 2004, the number of individuals in the United States (ages 12 years and over) who were estimated to be sub-stance dependent or substance abusers was 22.5 million people, or 9.4 % of the population (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA], 2005). Current estimates indicate that over 6 million children in the United States live with at least one parent who is a substance abuser or is substance dependent (SAMHSA, 2003). Of those individuals who report abusing drugs or alcohol, only a small percentage report receiving treatment (SAMHSA, 2005). The effects on children living in these homes are far-reaching. One negative effect is that children of addicted individuals are two to four times more likely to become substance abusers themselves. They are more likely to develop associations with deviant peers and engage in criminal activity (Barnard & McKeganey, 2004). Addi-tionally, children who are exposed to drug and alcohol abuse are at a greater risk of experiencing academic and Current estimates indicate that over 6 million children live with at least one parent who is a substance abuser or is substance dependent. Children who are exposed to drug and alcohol abuse are at a greater risk of experiencing academic and behavior difficulties. Additionally, several studies have shown that students with emotional and behavioral disorders, who are already at risk for school failure, are also at heightened risk for substance abuse. Schools are in a unique position to help families access resources for their children and act as a place where services can be provided to many children who are at risk for substance use. This article describes ways to bring substance abuse prevention programming into the schools