If you’re visiting this website, it’s likely that you
already know the dangers of prescription drug abuse and that children of
addicts are at greater risk for addiction than other kids. And that
half of young adults mistakenly think that prescription or over-the-counter
drugs are safer than street drugs. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, caregiver, or teacher, you can have an enormous impact on a young adult's attitude toward prescription drugs — and in conveying the risk of abusing them.
6 Steps for Preventing Prescription Drug Abuse
Talk it up. Since prescription drugs are legal, many teens
mistakenly think that parents won’t care as much if they get caught
abusing these meds. Convey the dangers to your kids and let them know
that you do care and that you are always there to help if they’re in
trouble.
Track your meds. And don’t dismiss one or two missing pills; this could be a red flag.
Store meds properly. Keep your or your child's medications in a
secure location; you may even consider putting them under lock and key
if your child is showing any signs of abuse.
Get rid of old or unused medicine properly. Many towns hold
prescription-pill drop-offs to help community members safely dispose of
old or unused pills. Check with your local police, sanitation
department, and pharmacies.
Get family members and friends onboard. Talk to grandparents and parents of your child’s friends about properly safeguarding prescription drugs in their homes.
Learn the warning signs: These may include:
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Wanting to spent a lot of time alone
- Giving up interests and hobbies
- Hostile, angry and aggressive behavior toward anyone who tries to control their actions
- Unexplained crying or routine irritable
- Lack of self-care and cleanliness
- Loss of interest in schoolwork or failing grades
- Poor sleep patterns — sleeping during the day and staying up all night or for days at a time
- Disregard for family rules or curfew
If your son or daughter has a prescription drug abuse problem, act now. Our staff at Hope Academy specializes in young adult addiction recovery, and will help your child pursue sobriety and open doors to a brighter academic and professional future. Call today: 866-930-4673.
