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Ways to Fight Drug Abuse

Since the late 1980s, the United States has waged a war against a formidable foe, known as drug abuse. According to the Common Sense for Drug Policy website, adolescent drug abuse has increased since 1989, with deadly overdoses skyrocketing to record levels. People are continuing to use drugs, in spite of negative consequences, such as prosecution and incarceration.

  1. Develop an Education Based Model

    • According to the Common Sense for Drug Policy website, funding programs to keep youth interested in progress instead of drugs is a viable solution. Bankrolling programs whose purpose is to provide vocational training, mentorship, and the acquisition of job related skills is likely to lead to a decrease in the demand for drugs, according to this model. A community which succeeds at this is then turning the interests of young people elsewhere.

    Provide Treatment on Demand

    • According to the CSDP website, providing drug treatment and counseling on demand is an effective way of fighting this epidemic. Such treatment not only includes drug abstinence counseling, but also access to such alternative maintenance drugs as methadone. As the website points out, the therapy is voluntary, and not so much required as part of a court order. Moreover, such care also includes mental health treatment, as well as counseling for sexual abuse and domestic violence.

    Teachers and Parents: Recognize the Symptoms

    • As the Helpguide website says, there are signs and symptoms of drug abuse that may signal to parents the existence of a drug crisis. Among physical symptoms are chronically bloodshot eyes, or changes in appetite or sleep patterns. Deterioration in physical appearance, such as a rapid loss of weight, can also be a sign. Behavioral signs, such as a significant drop in academic performance, or a sudden change of friendships may also be a clue.

    Alert Children to Negative Consequences

    • According to the Heads Up website, high schools should administer a course on drugs and their consequences. The teacher begins the class by asking the students what they know about the effects of drug abuse. Then the teacher can state how each drug's usage impairs judgment, leading to unprotected sex, resulting in an HIV diagnosis. In addition, the teacher can cite examples of entertainers, such as Michael Jackson or Elvis Presley, who died of drug overdoses.

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