By Brian Marquis, Public Liaison Officer, National Institute on Drug Abuse
Many teens are not aware of the serious risks drugs and alcohol pose to their health, to their success in school, and to their future. So the question is: What can communities do to effectively educate this generation of teens about drug abuse? One way is for school staff, parents, and students to work together on awareness events that will provide teens with the facts about drug use. National Drug Facts Week (NDFW) is a national health observance designed to arm communities with the materials and tools they need to influence teens to say no to drugs. Inspired by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the National Institute of Health, NDFW is in its fifth year and will be held from January 26 through February 1, 2015.
"This week is designed to counteract the myths teens have about drug abuse, often reinforced by their peers, the Internet, and the entertainment industry," said NIDA Director, Nora D. Volkow, M.D. "When given the facts from people they trust, teens are in a better position to make good decisions about drug use.”
All around the country, science teachers, health teachers, guidance counselors, social workers, drug prevention programs, and community support programs are using the science-based information available FREE from NIDA in their curriculum, school assemblies, PTA meetings, and evening workshops to get the truth out. In some cases, local research scientists and government officials can be invited to participate in these important events.
This year, NDFW is expecting more than 1000 events to be held in every state. These events range in size and scope, but they are all focused on educating and communicating with teens about drug use and its consequences. NIDA staff can provide ideas and information to help make an educational event successful. Some event ideas may include:
· A school assembly
· An addiction-themed art contest
· A graffiti fact wall
· A trivia night
· A panel discussion with local law enforcement, substance abuse counselors, and individuals affected by drug abuse.
· A government proclamation.
For additional information, visit the National Drug Facts Week website or email drugfacts@nida.nih.gov.
Students from Yuma area high schools sign a National Drug Facts Week banner at an event sponsored by the Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Drug Demand Reduction Program.
The award winning MCAS Drug Demand Reduction Program reached more than 1,000 teens in the Yuma area during National Drug Facts Week 2014.
