Of course, it is difficult to categorise a group of children as to whether they have ever tried drugs; most groups that prevention workers see probably have a mixture of experiences. This, however, still requires the use of prevention strategies. Information and messages on “safer drug use” are not appropriate for children who have never experimented with drugs, nor does it do a service for children who have experimented or are using drugs on a more regular basis. There are no easy answers in prevention to help children who are using drugs, as the roots of drug taking behaviour are multiple and may involve family, social and environmental causes, as well as individual issues. Intervention, including the prevention message, is a helpful and healthier method to help these children. To tell children about “safe” ways to use legal or illegal drugs, however, not only harms them, but also harms society. The implications of this approach have major effects on families, crime rates (including driving under the influence of substances), the medical and legal systems.

It is known from research that if people think it is “normal” to use drugs, use will increase. If society wants to decrease drug use, then it must be socially unacceptable to use drugs. (Johnson, University of Michigan, 1991). Research has shown that increases in perceived risks and disapproval contribute substantially to the decline in actual use. It appears that large proportions of young people do pay attention to new information about drugs, especially risks and consequences. Such information, presented in a realistic and credible fashion, plays a vital part in reducing the demand for a drug (National Institute on Drug Abuse. USA. 1991).

In conclusion, there are currently many problems caused by drug use. The overuse and misuse of legal substances (alcohol, cigarettes, and prescriptions) also have an effect on society. Prevention initiatives regarding these substances are finally being seen as important by most levels of society. Ongoing programmes, training, and social policy help spread prevention of drug use throughout communities, with the proven benefits of increasingly healthy individuals and society.

Source: Life Education International 1997 updated 1999