Looking at our Medicine Cabinets in a Different Light

When around young children, we are vigilant about keeping them away from dangerous substances, and rightfully so. We baby-proof cabinets and move cleaning supplies and other hazards well out of their reach. But can the same be said of our efforts with older children and teens? Do we think enough about the temptations and hazards in our homes, especially those found in our medicine cabinets?

As you may have heard, prescription drug misuse and abuse is a growing problem in the United States, and sadly, it is occurring more often with tweens and teens. But did you know that 65% of teens who report abuse of prescription drugs get them from friends and family?  As an educator, parent or caregiver would you know what to do if you suspected a teen was misusing or abusing prescription drugs?  If your answer was no, you are not alone.

With the holiday season upon us,  most tweens and teens will be out of school and have a lot of extra time on their hands, and for some that can lead to the temptation to experiment.  But this time is also a great opportunity to inform ourselves about prescription drug abuse and talk to young people about the dangers of prescription drug abuse and misuse. 

Perfect for educators, parents and caregivers, NEA HIN’s fact sheet, “What do you know about prescription drug abuse?” provides the facts about prescription drugs as well as key things youth should know.  Download it for free, and be sure to tell others about this important resource.

Educators now have an opportunity to download two free resource guides designed to teach students about prescription drug abuse and misuse. Aligned with the National Health Education Standards and Common Core State Standards, the lessons aim to equip students with the understanding and decision-making skills they need to recognize and avoid the dangers of misusing and abusing prescription drugs. To download a free copy of the Rx for Understanding guides for grades 5-8 and 9-12, visit https://www.neahin.org/rxforunderstanding.

Making sure tweens and teens are well informed is a vital step to keeping them safe and healthy. And arming ourselves with knowledge and information is the first step.

Wishing you a safe and healthy holiday season

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