Combating drug abuse among young people

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Health professionals can play a critical role in preventing drug abuse among adolescents and promoting a healthier society.

Prescription drug abuse is a growing public health problem, especially among youth. According to the CDC's Youth Risk Behavior Survey, over 12% of high school students surveyed in the United States have taken prescription painkillers without a doctor's prescription or in a manner other than prescribed. Of those surveyed, 6% had done so one or more times within 30 days prior to the survey date.

Teens and young adults may abuse prescription drugs for many reasons, including:

• To feel good or get high
• For relaxation or stress relief
• Relieve pain
• To reduce appetite
• To improve concentration
• Feeling accepted by peers

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, studies also show that traumatic experiences such as abuse, violence, neglect, or the death of a loved one make a person more vulnerable to developing a substance use disorder. “Someone who has experienced trauma or experienced chronic stress might use substances such as drugs and alcohol as a form of self-medication.”

The National Institutes for Health emphasizes that health professionals can play a role in intervention because “adolescents with a history of trauma are a high-risk group for illicit drug use and may benefit from trauma-focused prevention efforts that specifically address traumatic memories and coping strategies for stressful life events.”

How to improve communication with patients who abuse prescription drugs

Health care professionals are in a unique position to encourage appropriate prescription drug use and identify signs of potential abuse. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that health care professionals begin one-on-one meetings with adolescent patients as early as age 11. This allows young people to begin taking responsibility for their health and asking questions in a confidential space. Research shows that young people who have had time alone with their doctor to discuss sensitive topics, including substance use, are more likely to take an active role in the treatment and care of their patients.

In addition to using standardized screening tools during the visit, professionals can implement communication practices that allow patients to feel safe, valued, and empowered. Consider incorporating these questions into your next clinic visit:

• What do you know about prescription drugs and their potential risks?
• Do you think prescription drugs are safer than illegal drugs? Why or why not?
• Have you ever taken prescription medication for stress or anxiety or to improve your performance in school or sports?
• Have you ever taken medication that was not prescribed for you? If so, why?
• Have you ever felt pressured by friends or colleagues to take prescription medication?
• Do you feel comfortable talking to your parents or a trusted adult about your questions or concerns?

Additional resources

Here are some additional steps your health center or clinic can take to help prevent prescription drug abuse:

By implementing these practices, health professionals can play a critical role in preventing prescription drug abuse among youth and promoting a healthier society.

About ETR

ETR | Education, Training, and Research is a nonprofit organization that envisions a world in which all people and communities achieve their best health. Through our work, we improve the health and well-being of youth and communities by advancing science. For more information, visit www.etr.org