Program highlights parental involvement in helping combat teen drug abuse

By Staff Writer

Many experts believe that early intervention with regards to adolescent drug use may put teens on the road to success rather than addiction. Therapeutic boarding schools are one avenue parents can take in helping their troubled teen overcome obstacles of substance abuse.

A new program in Arizona is using parent involvement to help curb drug use among teens, news station KPNX reports.

The program helps educate parents about teen substance abuse trends and the dangers of drugs and alcohol. Officials told the news source that adults should be supportive but also exhibit tough love toward their children to show them that addiction can affect their lives.

Officials added that Arizona, like many states, struggles with prescription drug abuse among teens. Most of this may be a result of these substances being easily accessible in medicine cabinets in homes. Also, teens attend "pharming" parties where they must provide prescription pills to gain admission.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that an estimated 1.9 million teens between ages 12 and 17 abused prescription in 2008.