National Substance Abuse Prevention Month

This October we observe National Substance Abuse Prevention Month. Do you have a loved one that struggles with substance abuse? You are not alone.

Many Americans have family, friends, and other loved ones who are in the midst of the same struggle. Substance abuse can take many forms, including underage alcohol use, alcohol dependency at any age, illegal drug use, non-medical use of prescription drugs, and abuse of over-the-counter medication. Substance abuse can affect you, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity. However, prevention strategies can be incredibly effective and less costly than treatment after the fact. 

There are different types of substance abuse prevention strategies, depending on demographics. Educating teens about the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption and the effect of alcohol on the developing body and brain may encourage waiting until the appropriate age to consume alcohol in moderation.

When it comes to illegal drug use, or incorrect use and abuse of medication and prescription drugs, the message must be a little different. Alcohol in moderation may be enjoyed at the right age and in the appropriate context, but no one will ever reach an age at which drug abuse is appropriate. Effective prevention strategies often target the root of drug problems, including lack of community or social outlet, depression and anxiety, and stress brought on by socioeconomic circumstances. Early intervention can help prevent substance abuse by helping to ameliorate these factors.

Community based efforts at preventing substance abuse are often among the most successful. Preventing substance abuse does not just mean teaching young people about the dangers of drugs. It can also mean providing opportunities to gain further education and workforce preparedness. In addition, it can mean showing students that there are viable alternative life paths available that can be difficult to choose once drug abuse has infiltrated your life. 

If you have a loved one struggling with substance abuse, our office is available to help in any way we can. We are also more than happy to put you in touch with some important community resources available to you and your loved one. We are your local, experienced, law firm! Do not hesitate to call, chat or click here to contact us today!