“It causes irreversible brain damage, which is what is so dangerous about inhalants,” he said.

According to statistics Layton used, 50 percent of eighth graders and 80 percent of 12th graders have tried alcohol. Additionally, 25 percent of eighth graders report having been drunk.

“Kids get influenced by other kids. Be the excuse; don’t be their friend,” said Juvenile Court Judge Jim Kramer, chair of the Shelby County Drug Free Coalition. “Give them a reason to say to the peer pressure, ‘I’ll get caught.’”

Layton gave a list of what to look for when parents suspect their kids of drug or alcohol use:

-Some signs and symptoms of depression

-Changes in school or community behavior.

-Changes in physical and psychological condition.

-Changes in family behavior.

-Lying when they don’t have to.

“There’s an epidemic killing our kids,” Layton said.

For more information, contact Lonnie Layton at 621-4429.