The best time to prevent substance abuse is in the early ages while children are still impressionable. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that young people must be educated about the effects of substance abuse, because they often make decisions based on false information they receive from their peers. Education and other prevention techniques work best when the three places of influence work together and include the home, school and the community.
Parents
The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that substance abuse prevention begins at home with parents. They advise parents to first act as positive role models and not use illegal drugs or abuse alcohol, tobacco or prescription drugs. While there are no guarantees that children will refrain from using drugs if the parents don't use, the odds are higher that children will follow in the steps of their primary caregivers. Parents also should talk openly to their children about the dangers and consequences of using drugs. They should make clear rules about drug abuse and what punishments will be enacted if a child is caught using. Parents who spend quality time with their children also provide an atmosphere that leads to healthier growth and fewer incidences of substance abuse.
Schools
Substance abuse prevention programs should emphasize academic and social learning programs in addition to straight drug information programs, reports the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Prevention programs in schools can begin as early as preschool when aggressive behavior or antisocial activities are spotted in young children. Academic failure, poor social skills and early aggression are indicators that could lead to dropping out and drug abuse. The NIDA recommends interventions that include communication and problem-solving education, teaching self-control and emotional awareness and academic support, with particular attention paid to reading skills. As children get older, they can be taught about peer pressure and how to resist negative temptation. They can learn more specifically about the consequences of substance abuse and receive reinforcement of attitudes toward substance abuse.
Communities
Communities can get involved in substance abuse prevention through clubs, the media and faith-based groups. Community programs can follow-up on the messages children receive at home and in school with consistent reports of the negative consequences of drug abuse. Sports and classes in community centers and through municipal organizations should include specific times set aside to talk to the participants about drug abuse. Speakers can be provided that children will respond to and listen to. Local groups can provide training for teachers and parents.
