There is always a story about drug overdose and substance abuse deaths in the news these days. All genders, races and ages are represented among the victims. The CDC reports that 106,699 people died from drug overdoses in 2020-2021. In September 2022, Jacksonville police reported a drug bust in an amount capable of killing 1.5 million people.
Sadly, so many of our teens and young adults are affected. Health records show that one in seven Americans aged 12 or older has experienced substance use disorder.
Although we have laws, policies and strategies to resist this situation, it still persists, but preventive methods aimed at young adults are great ways to confront this problem head-on. A wise saying quotes “prevention is better than cure.” By preventing this health issue, we could save lives, communities and money.
Some preventive methods for teens include:
Enlighten them on substance abuse
Programs that inform teens about the harms of drugs, alcohol abuse and illegal prescription use, should be offered to them. These programs would correct wrong ideas they have about substance abuse. In addition, the harmful effects will be explained to them. These programs can be organized in schools or community centers and can be done in an interactive setting where young adults are encouraged to share their views.
Create easy access to mental health support
Teens turn to substance abuse when they go through stressful situations. Divorce, bullying and academic challenges are just some of the issues experienced by teens, challenges that can make them seek relief in drugs. Having a great support system to counsel them will be very helpful and young adults should have easy access to mental health experts.
Read more at Jacksonville.com.
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