Resources for Teens and Parents on Drug Abuse
In honor of National Drug Facts Week, District Attorney Tom Quinn’s Office partnered with SADD National to conduct a live, online webinar addressing the ongoing and growing issue of drug abuse and teen drugged driving. The issue affects all, but becomes especially important to discuss among teens. Vehicle accidents are already the leading cause of death for young persons ages 16-19. When lack of driving experience is combined with the use of illegal substances, a higher risk for harm and fatality results. Additionally, studies show that 9.3 million Americans age 16 or older report driving under the influence of illicit drugs in 2014. (Office of National Drug Control Policy)
During the forum, we defined the issue, shattered the myths, answered viewers’ questions, and offered advice and guidance to those who may be affected. To follow up on the forum’s success and widespread interest among viewers, please see the following resources. Education and reaching out for help are the beginnings to reducing and working to eradicate drug abuse.
REQUESTED!! From panelist Lori Gonsalves, a parent advocate for teens and families battling drug abuse. Lori’s son suffered severe, permanent brain damage after a relapse into heroin use. View a moving PSA created in collaboration between her family and the Taunton Opiate Task Force.
PSA – http://vimeo.com/97833733
For more, contact Lori about speaking presentations.
Where to Turn for Help
MA Substance Abuse Info & Education Helpline
(Toll free) 1-800-327-5050 (TTY) 617-536-5872
www.helpline-online.com
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
(Toll free & confidential) 1-800-662-HELP
www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov
Community Counseling of Bristol County
http://www.comcounseling.org/
High Point Treatment Center
http://www.hptc.org/
SSTAR of Fall River
http://www.sstar.org/
Learn to Cope
www.learn2cope.org
A support organization that offers education, resources, peer support, and hope for parents and family members coping with a loved one addicted to opioids or other drugs.
Additional Online Resources:
www.sadd.org
www.boldcoalition.org
www.drugfreenb.org
www.masstapp.edc.org
www.cdc.gov
www.niaaa.nih.gov
Great for parents…
http://www.drugabuse.gov/
http://beta.samhsa.gov/underage-drinking/start-the-talk
www.stopalcoholabuse.gov
www.underyourinfluence.org
www.getsmartaboutdrugs.com
www.theantidrug.com
Great for teens….
www.sadd.org
http://teens.drugabuse.gov/www.toosmarttostart.samhsa.gov
www.abovetheinfluence.com
www.thecoolspot.gov
www.samhsa.gov/underage-drinking-topic
More reading…
Prescription Drug Abuse: Popping Pills in America
Abuse of Prescription Pain Medications Risks Heroin Use