Step Up

Updated: August 05, 2008

Do you know anyone who's experimented with drugs or alcohol? Chances are you do-- a recent government survey found that one in three teens has experimented with drugs. More than 40 percent of teens have experimented with alcohol by the time they reach 10th grade. Studies have shown that the earlier a person is introduced to drugs and alcohol, the more likely problems will develop.

If you suspect a friend or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, there's something you can do. You can step up to help, before the problem gets worse. Experts agree that early intervention can prevent greater heartache down the road.

For a personal take on someone who is dealing with a substance-abuse problem-- check out the story of two friends Lindsay and Shawna, in our photo gallery. Lindsay, 19, started using drugs when she was 15, and her friend Shawna tried to intervene. Click on the photo gallery to get Lindsay's story.