National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week takes place March 16th- 22nd.
National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week’s goal is to dispel myths about drug and alcohol use and to inform teens about the impact and risk of substance abuse as well as addiction.
According to research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), two-thirds of U.S. students have tried alcohol by the 12th grade.
The average age at which children typically experiment with alcohol and drugs is 13 years old.
There are five signs of drug abuse among teens. They include:
Psychological changes such as trouble concentrating, memory issues, and random laughter
Changes in behavior, including bad grades, lack of respect for others, and poor eye contact
Suspicious behavior such as hiding drug paraphernalia, missing cash, or valuables
Health issues, including appetite changes, shakiness, excessive headaches, or frequent illness
Poor personal appearance, such as bad hygiene or bloodshot eyes
There is a lot of misinformation around drugs and alcohol. Many myths have been created and spread through our culture, especially among young people. Here are some myths about drugs and alcohol that have been debunked:
Myth #1- Marijuana addiction isn’t real
Although it is impossible to overdose on marijuana, habitual cannabis use can change the way the body works, create a tolerance, and cause withdrawal symptoms after stopping
Myth #2- It is okay to quit drinking alcohol and start smoking marijuana instead
Switching from one addictive behavior to another is common; however, it creates other addictive cycles
Myth #3- Prescription drugs can’t be addictive if prescribed by my doctor
Even doctor-prescribed drugs can have a tolerance built against them, which eventually causes an addiction. Especially painkillers such as opiates or benzodiazepines
Here are more facts about drugs, alcohol, and addiction:
- Alcohol is the most abused substance in the U.S., and the third most common cause of death
- Alcohol and drugs are involved in approximately 50% of deaths by suicide and are the cause of death of more than 50% of all violent crimes
- 80% of all domestic violence abuse reports show a relationship to alcohol or drugs
Although National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week is geared toward young people, people of any age are encouraged to participate and educate themselves so that they can make educated choices related to drugs and alcohol.
To learn more about our mental health services or to schedule a virtual appointment, call (718) 670-5316 to speak with our intake coordinator or (718) 670-5562 to reach the clinic.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.