October was first declared as National Substance Abuse Prevention Month in 2011. Since then, it’s been a time to promote prevention efforts and the help available in our community. It is also a time to acknowledge the over 20 million Americans who struggle with addiction, those that have lost their battles with addiction, and those in recovery, as well as the family and friends who support them.
Key to substance use prevention is talking openly with our children and helping them understand the impact of substance abuse on their health. Studies show that the earlier an individual starts smoking, drinking, or using other drugs, the greater the likelihood of developing an addiction. Conversely, every year substance use is delayed during adolescent brain development, the risk of addiction and substance abuse decreases.
Below are resources on how to help build awareness of substance use.
- SAMHSA’s substance use prevention campaign, “Talk. They Hear You” - helps parents and caregivers start talking to children about the dangers of alcohol and other drugs.
- Partnership to end addiction - provides science and research supported information to help in conversations about drug and alcohol use.
- Harvard Medical Blog - “Teens and Drugs: 5 Tips for Talking with your kids”
- National Institute on Drug Abuse - Marijuana: Facts Parents Need to Know & Talking to Your Kids: Communicating the Risks
If you or a loved one is struggling, we want to remind you of Care Solace, a complimentary service available to the West Perry School District community. To find a substance use or mental health care provider who will help you through your challenges, contact Care Solace at 888-515-0595 or www.caresolace.com/westperry.
Original source can be found here.
Alerts Sign-up