This year, the last week of October commemorates more than just Halloween; it draws attention to a more frightening occurrence: the epidemic of drug abuse that is plaguing families of teens across America.

Designated as Red Ribbon Week, October 23- October 31 has been set aside by The National Family Partnership as a time to focus on educating teens and young adults on the dangers of substance abuse and alcoholism.

“While drug abuse prevention is an on-going mission, designating a specific time to such matters can play an important part in helping to decrease the need for drug rehab among teens and young adults,” begins a spokesperson for Mountainside Drug Rehab and Alcohol Treatment Center . “When a certain time is set aside for drug abuse prevention through education, more individuals and organizations become involved, increasing the effectiveness of the message. It raises everyone’s awareness so that potential problems can be identified early-on. In addition, for parents who are uneasy approaching the subject, it allows them a comfortable segue into the discussion, thus opening up the lines of communication between them and their children. Once an initial conversation takes place, it makes it easier to broach the subject as time goes on. Studies have shown that regular communication about the dangers of substance abuse and the topics surrounding substance abuse, such as peer pressure, helps teens and young adults become more comfortable in approaching a trusted adult with concerns they may have. Education is really the key to thwarting the epidemic of drug abuse in America .”

Via EPR Network
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