Tip of the Week: Alcohol suppresses training hormones for up to 4 days. You may show up to practice but there will be little improvement or gains.

Many athletes tend to underestimate the way in which alcohol use, even a few drinks, can nullify your hard work by erasing the effects of your workouts, reducing your endurance and compromising your mental game. Alcohol affects your ability to learn new plays and strategies; it decreases your aptitude for muscle development and recovery and negatively impacts your nutrition and endurance.

Want to bring relief to a stressed out teen? Let them know that it’s fine to not know their purpose in life. Teens become overwhelmed when they think they have to have everything figured out from the start, such as knowing their college major while they’re still in high school or their career plans on the first day of college. Slow down. Instead of rushing teens along, support and guide them as they figure out their next steps. Let them know their key strengths so they can use them as they plan and give them space to explore.

Read more from the Center for Parent & Teen Communication here.

Tip: It is the healthy teams that have a better chance for success

Be a leader and make your own choices. Set an example to your peers and choose to surround yourself with those making healthy choices. Show your leadership by choosing not to use drugs or alcohol.

SAMHSA encourages parents to talk with their college-bound young adults about alcohol use. If you are a parent, a high school or college administrator, or an organization serving parents and teens, please download these free materials and share them with other caring adults.

Tip: Train your mind like you train your body. Visualize the outcome you want.

Clear your mind and visualize your goal, breathe and refocus. Do this often and your brain will recall your goal faster and in more detail.

What are synthetic cannabinoids? Have you ever heard your child refer to K2 or Spice? This video was created to share with younger students to exhibit the impact of synthetic cannabinoids.

Tip: Choose not to use marijuana as it impacts your health, safety and potential for academic and athletic success.

THC (the chemical in marijuana) builds up in the brain and affects the skill recall area of the brain and delays reaction time. Marijuana compromises judgment and affects many other skills necessary to be a proficient athlete. These skills include alertness, concentration, coordination and reaction time.