As the number of prescription-drug related deaths increase, Montana's teens are getting involved in spreading the word about what Montana Attorney General Steve Bullock calls an "invisible epidemic."
Research shows that when it comes to prescription drug abuse, Montana is one of the hardest-hit states.
Cynthia Grubb of the Pondera County Health Department noted, "We're the third-highest in the nation, 10% of Montana teens admit using prescription drugs within the last 30 days, it's the drug of choice for 12 and 13 year olds. Some of those things are just things that the health department shouldn't ignore."
Pondera County Health Department is teaming up with students from Conrad High School to raise awareness about the subject.
Brittany Greyn, a junior at Conrad High School, said, "We have taken notice that it is a growing problem amongst teens in Montana."
Brittany noted, "55% of teens can receive the drugs for free, just from...parents or relatives."
Many parents do not realize that their own medicine cabinet can be a source of a variety of drugs for abuse, says Karen Walsh, one of the co-founders of Inspirations.
The first step in helping protect your teens is to speak the same language they do. Knowing the vocabulary surrounding prescription drug abuse can help you take a proactive approach in communicating with your teen and safeguarding their health and safety.
Teenagers turn to prescription drugs because they perceive them as less dangerous than illegal drugs. Because of this, teenage prescription drug abuse is on the rise.
In conversations with your teen about drugs, make sure to include prescription drug abuse and why it's harmful. Tell them that taking prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) drugs without a doctor's approval and supervision can be a dangerous—even deadly—decision. Dispel the myth that these drugs are less harmful than street drugs because they are available through a doctor or at the local drug store.
If you or someone you know is struggling with prescription drug abuse or addiction and is in need of help, Inspirations Teen Rehab offers a flexible and affordable teen addiction treatment program. Our aim is to treat the whole person, and not just an isolated symptom. During the addiction treatment process we will work with the teen to identify the factors that may have contributed to the prescription drug abuse and addiction – home, friends and medical history. We also believe that families have a vital role to play in the recovery process, and each addiction treatment program has a place for family participation, to educate them in the treatment process and to equip them for their role as supporters.
Looking for a Drug Rehab Center for your Teen?
Reach out to us. For more information on our treatment programs contact us:
Teen Treatment Programs: 1-888-757-6237
http://www.inspirationsyouth.com
http://www.inspirationsteenrehab.com
Young Adults and Adults Treatment Programs:
1-888-387-6237
http://www.covecenterforrecovery.com
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