Despite concerted efforts to stem the tide of prescription drug abuse it is a problem which continues to plague our nation’s young people. The sheer numbers of prescription painkillers, stimulants and sedatives being used are staggering. Experts say about 100 Americans die each and every day as a result of prescription drug overdose.
Not a Matter of Overt Pressure
The efforts of drug makers, law enforcement and even the federal government are failing to change the high risk behavior. A new study finds that the behavior isn’t changing precisely because young people do not view it as high risk. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)- funded research says that interventions based on confronting overt peer pressure are misdirected. The Purdue University study says that direct peer pressure is not what drives prescription drug abuse among young people. It’s far more subtle than that.
Easy to Get
Researchers talked with 600 young adults and learned that few are won over with the “try this…all the cool kids use drugs” line. Instead, young people see a good number of their friends using the drugs and having a good time and, at the same time, never see any negative side effects. Multiple studies report that 70 percent of prescription drug users get their drugs from either a family member or a friend – meaning that the drugs are readily available.
Fun to Use
Easy availability and the subtle influence of observed peer behavior are hard issues to fight. Young people perceive significant social advantages and little negative social backlash to abusing prescription drugs. Until we figure out how to confront those subtleties, turning the tide of abuse will be difficult.
Family Guidance is a place where professionals understand how easy it is to fall into drug abuse but are ready and able to help show young people the way out. If prescription drugs are a problem in your life, contact us today.
