It's hard to believe that seniors in high school, many of whom have made good decisions all along, are suddenly susceptible to bad choices in the weeks just before they graduate.

Contrary to logic, some young adults are more likely, not less, to make big mistakes before graduation day.

Maybe it's the excitement of earning a diploma- passing the first milestone of life- that creates vulnerability. Despite having a level of maturity because they've gotten this far in their lives, some young people are willing to risk it all just before commencement.

That's like running a marathon and taking a wrong turn at mile 25.2.

We're talking, of course, about drugs and alcohol and other behaviors that accompany the use of intoxicants.

Why would a senior make such a poor choice just before graduating from high school?

There are many reasons, although none of them justify such bad thinking. Many seniors complain that they're bored and anxious for the next phase of their life. Others turn to alcohol or drugs because it gives them "something to do with friends."

Others get loaded because they think it's "cool" or a sign of growing up. Most simply do it because of peer pressure- like it's a kind of rite of passage passed down from one graduating class to the next.

But taking alcohol or drugs, among other things, can remove a normally straight-thinking teen's inhibitions and make that person more likely to become sexually active. And the consequences of making that choice are far-reaching.

Young people should be reminded of the importance of being sober during this crucial time in their lives, of saying no when even everyone else- even their close friends- might be saying yes.

Now is an especially good time for parents to sit down with their children and ask how they're doing.

When you're 18, your whole life is ahead of you. Don't toss it away like you will your graduation cap.