Teens and Abuse
The Partnership for a Drug-Free America's annual tracking study says one in five teens has abused a prescription pain medication, stimulant or tranquilizer. They do it for a variety reasons. To escape and feel numb. To stay up all night and study. To relax and party with their friends.
Accessibility is the reason prescription drugs are so attractive. Most teens obtain the drugs they abuse from family and friends – often stealing prescriptions from a medicine cabinet. Besides prescription drugs, teens are using over-the-counter cough and cold medicines to get high, sometimes downing entire bottles.
Unfortunately, many teens don’t understand they are playing with fire. A 2007 study by the Partnership for a Drug-Free America and the MetLife Foundation found 40 percent of teens and 37 percent of parents think teen abuse of prescription pain killers is safer than the abuse of illicit street drugs.
It is important to talk to children about drug abuse. Preferably, begin before age 8. Create a positive, loving environment at home and watch for signs of excess stress or depression that can lead to drug abuse. Listen to your children’s concerns with empathy. Set clear boundaries and expectations. For example: “If there are drugs at the party, call me, and I will pick you up.” Know where your children are and who they are with. Always lock up your own prescriptions.
For more information on preventing teen drug abuse, visit www.parentsempowered.org and www.drugfree.org.
