National Youth Substance Use Prevention Month Starts; End Substance Use Disorder Issues Statement

The month of October marks National Youth Substance Use Prevention Month. The month provides an opportunity to promote best practices to prevent children and teenagers from using nicotine, alcohol, and drugs. End Substance Use Disorder released the following statement:

“Every parent deserves the peace of mind to know that their child will be safe from overdoses and substance use disorder,” said Erin Schanning, president of End Substance Use Disorder. “One of the most important steps that we can take to safeguard our families and communities is to support our children in developing the healthy practices and the resilience to prevent drug and alcohol use.”

Delaying the age that children and teenagers try drugs or alcohol is key for lifelong health. Children who use drugs or alcohol before they’re fifteen are six times more likely to develop substance use disorder than if they wait until they’re older.

Thankfully, we have many solutions proven to protect children from substance use. These solutions include investing in maternal, infant, and early childhood programs and expanding school programs that develop strong emotional resilience in youth. In addition, states and local governments can implement minimum age restrictions on drugs and alcohol and tax those substances to discourage use. Lastly, all pediatricians can screen for substance use and provide guidance and referrals to treatment, if necessary. We must ensure that youth have the knowledge, support, and access to treatment to stay healthy.

With these common-sense solutions, we can keep our children safe from substance use disorder.