subject: The Best Way To Help Students Prevent Drug And Alcohol Abuse [print this page] Drug abuse has been prevalent in schoolsDrug abuse has been prevalent in schools. According to most specialists, alcohol use triggers drug abuse especially among students who are in the stage where their peers are the most important individuals in their life. The increasing number of substance abusers in schools calls for an effective prevention approach.
According to a website on substance abuse among teenagers, there are approximately $58 billion annual financial toll among young alcohol drinkers in the USA. Additionally, 40 percent of young drinkers who begin consuming alcoholic beverages before they reach 14 years old suffer from alcohol problems. But, supporting early intervention and addressing alcohol issues will help prevent substance addictions in schools.
Drug Abuse Among Students
Around 40 percent of students in high schools have utilized substance, according to a new study. Risky behaviors like fighting, drinking, steroid use and gambling are associated with the use of the drug. Drug addicts can be treated at the drug treatment centers.
According to studies, the impact of a drug on a person's memory, attention and learning may last up to some days or weeks. Consequently, people who smoke every day may have less intellectual level. This is the reason why students who smoke are found to have lower grades and may drop high school than those who do not.
Strategies to Avoid Drug And Alcohol Abuse
1. Involvement of Parents
Schools can ask the assistance of parents in promoting awareness on drug abuse and the effects of alcohol or drugs on the wellbeing of students. This awareness in schools and homes will give students regular reminder and will likely to aid them avoid substance use. The patient can also view some aspects about what is substance abuse.
2. Addressing Risk Factors
Risk factors of drug abuse like lack of parental assistance, early aggression, peer drug abuse, poverty and drug availability should be determined and addressed. It is possible for children to be tempted to use alcohol or drugs as they undergo life changes.
3. Improve Confidence and Self-esteem of students
This requires encouraging students and finding ways to recognize or reward their efforts. Teachers can ask them to role play situations among peers and help them understand the importance of making smart decisions.
4. Invite professional speakers
The school can let their students listen to drug and alcohol abuse professionals who will tell students the negative effects of drug use and abuse. Students tend to listen to school guests so their words can make a difference in their choices.
Most students are into peer pressure which will force them to try any drug. But, with the appropriate preventive measures from their homes and schools, these young people can make good choices.
