Medications - are they being abused by our children?

It was a shocking revelation to engage in conversation with several friends on the article titled, “Many Kids Abuse Controlled Medications”.  Therefore, a question to pose is how as a society do we combat this trend where children are abusing the medication that was prescribed to off-site a medical condition not get high?   The most common drug cited in the article was painkillers followed by stimulants and sleeping pills.  When you open your medicine cabinet what type of drugs will be found for the child to be tempted to take for that temporary high or give to their peers?  One friend shared about children having pill parties where each brings medications and place in a large bowl taken sporadic and not knowing anything about them.

This brings up the topic of “Protecting Children from Prescription Drug Abuse” that lights the following steps to reduce or eliminate abuse of medication:

1.      Get rid of old or unused medications;

2.      Count your pills;

3.      Secure your medications; and

4.      Talk with your children.

As you are getting ready to talk with your children these two video clips on YouTube may assist with the conversation and knowledge as a parent.  No, the conversation may not be a comfortable one but is it one that must take place to reassure your child has a safe and healthy life toward adulthood.

1.       Teen Discussion on Drug Abuse and Addiction with Dr. Volkow NIDA

2.      Parent Discussion on Drug Abuse and Addiction with Dr. Volkow NIDA

It should be noted that the video clips are frank open-ended conversations that may offend you but the reality of the situation is it is occurring and needs to be addressed.  Parents, the role of parenting is not easy but you can do it.  

Parents, it cannot be overstressed the importance of being very observant of your child’s behavior and mood for the possibility of misusing their medication or distributing with peers.  Let’s assure the medication is used for why it was prescribed.