Preventing youth drug abuse is a task that begins at home with parents and even older siblings. With open communication, honesty and planning it is possible to keep young people from ever starting drug use.
Instructions
Prevent Youth Drug Abuse
1. Talk to your children and family members about the realities of drug abuse among young people. It is often hard for parents and older siblings to imagine a young family member using drugs but denying the possibility often leads to problems. Failing to acknowledge that youth drug abuse can occur, sometimes causes family members to overlook symptoms of drug abuse and/or dependency.
2. After talking to younger family members about substance abuse encourage them to watch movies and documentaries about the subject. Many young teens and adolescents are tempted to use drugs after seeing drug use glamorized in movies and in music videos. Showing young teens and preteens movies and documentaries that represent the negative impact drugs can have on someone's life will illustrate the serious consequences of drug use.
3. Ask questions about illegal drug use among friends and classmates. Even though most young people will not admit to drug use among their peers, asking will remind them that you are aware that their peers do use drugs. Also, asking questions often will lead to discussions and continue the pattern of open communication about youth drug abuse.
4. Keep a close eye on all household drugs and medications. Youth drug abuse often starts at home with medicines that are easy to access. Try to keep all medicines--especially those that are habit forming--locked in a safe or a drawer with a lock. Start this habit as early as possible and consider counting pills whenever prescription drugs are in the house. This will keep you from overlooking youth drug abuse that has started in the home.
5. Always discuss any suspicion of youth drug abuse that may be taking place in your household or the home of neighbors or acquaintances. Never hesitate to discuss the issue in your home or in households that come into frequent contact with your own.
Tags: drug abuse, drug abuse, youth drug abuse, family members, young people