Medical Conditions

Educating Kids on the Negative Effects of Opioids

Posted on by Nora
Opioids
07
Mar

A group of prescription medicines refers to as opioids, beneficial to treat pain. These drugs are frequently abused or misused because they have a high potential for addiction. Moreover, opioid addiction has risen over the past ten years, turning it into a public health epidemic. Opioid abuse or usage affects students of all ages, but teens are particularly vulnerable.

Children and teenagers can learn a lot about the risks of opioid addiction from their teachers, parents, families, and friends. Improve students’ decision-making abilities with education and guidance. Also, this can provide them with tools to deal with peer pressure and make wiser choices.

What Does Opioids Abuse and Misuse Mean?

When someone uses an opioid or any other prescription for a cause other than the one for which it was given, they are engaging in drug abuse. When someone uses an opioid or another drug to get high, that is considered abuse.

As a person may like the high so much that they begin to repeat the experience repeatedly, opioid abuse and misuse are harmful. Addiction is what this is, and it can result in an overdose.

What Steps Can Parents Take to Stop Opioid Abuse and Misuse?

Parents can make a big difference in the well-being and safety of their children. The Center on Addiction lists three crucial measures parents should take to stop their kids from abusing opioids and lessen the likelihood of an unintentional overdose:

  • Be sure to handle prescription opioid drugs with care.
  • If your child takes an opioid painkiller after an injury or surgery, discuss the possibility of addiction with their doctor.
  • Have a sincere discussion with your youngster about opioids.

How Should Parents Approach a Conversation About This Matter?

It might be difficult to discuss drug misuse with a teen or young adult, but discussions about opioid use should be ongoing and open. Here are some pointers for how to speak with your child or adolescent:

  • Choose a time and place that are convenient for you.
  • Make open-ended inquiries.
  • Encourage your youngster and let them know you are aware of their feelings.
  • Also, make careful to express your disapproval of their taking prescription medicines like opioids or utilizing illicit substances plainly.

Resources and Tools For Educating About Opioids

There are several tools available to assist parents, educators, and community members in discussing the dangers of opioid abuse and misuse with students. Thus, for further information, go to the following websites: