Drug and Alcohol Prevention
According to the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids (drugfree.org) “Vaping, drinking or using substances can damage the brain’s wiring, increasing the likelihood of learning difficulties and physical and mental health problems during the teen years and well into adulthood.”
If you are concerned that your student is using/abusing drugs and alcohol, please reach out to your school counselor for assistance and resources.
We hope you will find the following resources helpful, engaging, and empowering.
https://recoveryresourcejeffco.com/
A central point of information concerning substance abuse treatment. The center’s staff and volunteers answer questions, initiate the treatment process, and make referrals as needed.
Electronic Cigarette Use
E-cigarette use poses a significant – and avoidable – health risk to young people in the United States. Besides increasing the possibility of addiction and long-term harm to brain development and respiratory health, e-cigarette use is associated with the use of other tobacco products that can do even more damage to the body. Even breathing e-cigarette aerosol that someone else has exhaled poses potential health risks.
Know the Risks: https://e-cigarettes.surgeongeneral.gov/
Medication Abuse
Prescription drug abuse is when someone takes a medication that was prescribed for someone else or takes their own prescription in a way not intended by a doctor or for a different reason - like to get high. This is a particular threat to children because prescription medications are readily available, easy to obtain, and possibly addictive.
Nationally, prescription medications are the most commonly abused drugs among 12-13 year olds.
Prevent Medication Abuse at Home
- Limit access to medications by locking them up and keeping them out of reach
- Keep track of the amount of medications you have
- Know which medications could be abused
- Supervise children taking their medication
- Dispose of unused medications
For more information visit: The Medication Abuse Project