4 Troubled Teens Blog

Current statistics tell us that about one in five teenagers intentionally abuse prescription drugs. While parents and teachers may be aware of the problem of teen prescription drug abuse, they may not realize that it is so prevalent. What has caused such a dramatic increase in this type of drug abuse? An Oregon newspaper cited three causes for the rise in prescription medication abuse among teens and adolescents: availability, access, and awareness.

Availability: There are many prescription and over-the-counter drugs that have potential for abuse. They are being used more frequently and are readily available. Access: The drugs are easy to get ... Awareness: The visibility of these drugs has increased through television advertisements. (Source: Statesman Journal)

There is also a general attitude among teenagers that prescription drugs are less risky than illicit street drugs because they come from a doctor. Parents, teachers and other adults need to help raise awareness about the dangers of prescription drugs, and parents need to make sure that their medications are locked up and inaccessible.

Labels: prescription_drug_abuse, teenagers, adolescent

Posted By: Aspen/CRC