Educating Teens About Designer Drugs

All around the world, drug use is an ever-present epidemic that has long plagued people of all ages, all races, and all color. As children grow, they tend to see the use of drugs as ‘normal’ or ‘necessary’ to prove their maturity. Modern-day drug use has become an issue of concern. Its cancerous tentacles have spread into the minds of kids all over the world. With its potent effect on children, pre-teens, and teenagers, it is leaving almost nothing for the future. Unfortunately, some of the victims of these designer drugs may become addicted and can potentially lose their homes and their loved ones. And in extreme cases, their lives.

Many people that have fallen victim to drug abuse confessed to having developed this habit in their pre-teen and teenage years. The reason is not far-fetched. Peer and societal pressures have pivotal roles in whether or not kids decide to use drugs. Without a proper understanding of drugs and guidance on how to be drug-free, the habit, once developed, can become a very serious addiction. And a life-threatening problem in some instances.

How to Begin Teaching Kids About Drugs

Drugs, their effects, and the aftermath

When we teach kids about drugs, their effects, and the aftermath, we utilize a powerful tool in making sure that the next generation doesn’t become addicts. The job of educating teens about drugs does not only fall on the parents. But also on educators and the community at large. If what they learn at home and see on the streets correlate with what they learn at school, they will grow to believe that drug abuse is harmful and should be avoided. Educating children about drug use will make them better informed and hence, more likely to avoid drug use.

It is important that students also learn about the effects of drugs on the human body and brain. Also the possible dangers that drug use can pose. Painting the whole picture for these teens to see how drugs can destroy their emotional and physical life is essential. When students can see a relationship between drug use and real life. They begin to see drugs for what they truly are.

Resources to enhance learning

Different resources should be used to achieve the aim of a drug-free world. Guest speakers could be brought to school. Projects could be given among peer groups. It could be included in the lesson plans, etc. No matter the method of approach, learning about drugs is key to prevention. Everyone in the community should get involved so that kids feel like they have all the solid support network they need. Local police precincts should also be involved and speak at school and educate kids about drug use and abuse.

Kids will feel more confident in their choices to avoid the use of drugs when everyone pulls together to show support for kids. They will feel more confident in their choices to avoid drug use. Talking to students about drugs may not always prove to be easy. However, with good resources, and the right teaching strategies, parents and teachers can help to explain drug abuse in a way that kids will understand and remember. Kids should be made to understand that the risks of drug use far outweigh the benefits. This will help them to say a firm ‘no’ to drug use. Educators should also be on the alert and constantly update themselves with information on newer “designer” drugs.

Earn their trust

Always be available for the students when they need someone to talk to. Who knows, they might just need a little pull to drag them from the beckoning hands of drug addiction. Let them know that there is always someone they can talk to if they are worried about drug use issues or need help. Schools should make their counseling more effective and refer kids who might be struggling with drug use.