The modern world is reeling under the influence of drugs. Drug addiction has become the greatest to the world threatening the very foundations of our normal life. The statistics about the outcome of drug abuse in the modern world are unbelievable. More than 60% of all murders, acts of domestic violence, rapes and other crimes are committed under the influence of alcohol and other drugs. We are in an urgent need for checking up this menace drug abuse and to find out ways and means for prevention programs. Unless we are aware of this dangerous monster and check it in time surely it will lead the whole world to utter annihilation.
Ten Tips for Prevention of Drug Abuse
1) Drug abuse prevention should begin at home
Home is the first nursery of character formation. Hence awareness about the dangers of drugs should begin at home. Parents should begin teaching children at an early age about the dangers of alcohol and drug use. They are the first role models. Hence they should themselves be careful in using the drugs and they should be exemplary to their children.
2) Schools and communities have an important role
The schools right from the early stages and the communities also are responsible for guiding children in making responsible and healthier decisions. They should be involved in creating awareness against drug abuse and teach children at an early age about the dangers of alcohol and drug use.
3) Discuss and enlighten in proper time
If the children are suspected of using drugs, or are prone to drug abuse, talk to them freely and tell them patiently about the consequences. Researches say that it is because proper preventive measures were not taken in due time that many have become drug addicts.
4) Educators and media should take initiatives to prevent drug abuse
Educators, community organizations and media can influence the growing generation and teach them about preventing drugs like alcohol, tobacco, etc. It is a sad fact that most of the advertisements in the media indirectly encourage promotion of drugs.
5) Conduct drug prevention programs
Communities can arrange group oriented drug abuse programs that can involve parents, peer groups, and educators. They can create an atmosphere for sharing, support and skill building through group discussions, etc.
6) Public officers also can help drug abuse prevention programs
Public officials like, a police official or some judicial people, or clergy from the local church may come into a school and tell the students what will happen to the children if they get caught doing or selling drugs.
7) Positive approach in prevention is essential
Prevention of drug abuse should be given with a positive approach on life. A drug abuser has to know the value of life and that he or she can live a life that is free and clear of drugs. Always keep your mind and body engaged in some productive activity. These people should think about doing volunteery work, charity and so on. So they can see how their lives turn around.
8) De-stress the mind
Stress of the mind is one of the worst reasons for drug addiction. Drug addict who is most likely in a feeble mental state, and has undergone intense emotional distress, must be allowed to speak out their mind. Prevention from idleness and sluggishness by keeping them busy save many from the peril of drug addiction. Avoid lonliness. Young people with no proper job or desire to work are at greater risk of getting addicted.
9) Start de-addiction treatment centers
De-addiction treatment centers can be started with the help of voluntary organizations which can do a great help to the society in redeeming the addicts from their slavery. They can also prevent others from getting addicted. These centers can save many from perversions of drug addiction.
10) Prevention from even prescription drug abuse
Even prescription drugs can be dangerous by creation drug addiction. People jump into dangerous territory of drug addiction when they take medication for the wrong reasons, when they take liberties in taking over doze and when they use products meant for someone else. This can be avoided by strictly taking the guidance of the physicians. Also the government should play a bigger role in preventing drug abuse.