Substance-related disorders are among the most prevalent of all mental disorders. They affect people in every part of society, and their consequences can be painful, traumatic, expensive, and even deadly. Furthermore, the negative consequences of substance-related disorders do not only affect the substance user; they touch the lives of the user's friends, family, coworkers, and other relations as well. From caffeine to alcohol, spray paint to cocaine, glue to nicotine, many different chemi...

For years researchers have looked for ways to understand why some people seem to become addicted to cigarette smoking with the first puff while others don't. Studies have focused on why certain individuals have an easier time breaking the bonds of smoking and how smoking cessation success rates could be improved.

When a young person can't speak easily, sometimes other kids think he's not very intelligent. That's often not the case, though. A person with a speech impairment may be just as bright as anyone else. In this book, you'll read about David, who struggles with stuttering, and Martha, who has difficulty articulating certain sounds. You'll discover how they overcome their challenges—and how they rise above the prejudice they each face.

Find out what it takes to be a professional athlete or sports official... The sports world offers many opportunities. Professionals work as: •Athletes, •Coaches, •Umpires and referees, and •Other sports officials. The world of professional sports is exciting—and demanding. You'll need physical coordination, strength, endurance...and a good character. As an athlete, coach, or sports official, you must demonstrate integrity, so that others will trust your leadership... Have the courage to st...

If your parents were unable to care for you, where would you go? Do you have family or friends who would take you in and support you? Unfortunately, many children don't have this option. The foster care system was put in place to help young people who find themselves without homes. As you follow the story of Bobby and Cara, two children whose family was torn apart, you'll discover more about the foster care system. You'll learn about the history behind the system, from the Orphan Trains in...

Jeff's family and friends described him as "good-looking," "fun-loving," "quick-witted," and "talented." He was kind, friendly, ambitious and always succeeded at every task he undertook. No one was surprised when Jeff was selected to represent his school in an international exchange program. But when Jeff returned to Ridgemont High a year later, everyone was shocked at his change in behavior. Why was Jeff so angry and out of control? Could it have something to do with his health? Many medi...

Find out what it takes to be a member of the military... The military has several branches: •Army, •Navy, •Air Force, and •Marines. Each branch offers a wide variety of opportunities, including the elite forces. Do you think you might like to dedicate a portion of your life to the service of your country? The major requirement for military service is strength of character; that means you must posses qualities like trustworthiness... Respect... Responsibility... Fairness... And citizenship....

Not every child is lucky enough to live in a safe, loving home. Many young people live in difficult, unhealthy, or even dangerous conditions. Luckily, there are systems in place to help kids caught in theses situations. Child protective services are working hard to help children in need. Ryan Delaney is one of these kids. He spends most of his time living in a fantasy world, because that's easier than facing his real life. He lies to his friends about his parents and his home—but eventuall...

The true story of Emily Eaton. Born with severe cerebral palsy, Emily and her family had to fight for her right to go to school with non-disabled children in a regular classroom. Unwilling to take no for an answer, her fight would take her all the way to the Supreme Court. Eventually victorious, Emily’s story makes her an amazing role model for children everywhere - whether they are living with a disability or not.

Filled with great material to emotionally empower young people, Hot Stuff to Help Kids Cheer Up offers proven tools to help kids take charge of their feelings.This handy guide is designed to help kids work through their depression and self-esteem issues in a way that's positive and effective.Author Jerry Wilde has used his experience as a school psychologist to create a workbook that is proven effective in giving kids the tools to break out of the ...

Ellie notices that her body is changing. Hair is growing in new places and there are other changes happening too. Ellie's mum helps her understand that she has started growing into a woman.Following Ellie as she begins to notice changes to her body, this simple resource helps parents and carers teach girls with autism and related conditions about puberty. It covers all the changes that they will experience, both emotional such as new feelings and physical such as periods. This full...

At twenty-seven, Sheila is already on the verge of a second divorce. She has a degree in early elementary education, but still can't decide on a career. Suffering from a continual feeling of emptiness and unsure of who she is, Sheila is terrified of losing her husband, yet seems to do everything she can to drive him away. With almost no friends and a strong compulsion to cut herself, Sheila's future looks bleak. Trent knows that everyone is out to get him. One by one, he spoils every chanc...