Drug Awareness and Diversion

Unused medications in homes create a public health and safety concern, because they are highly susceptible to accidental ingestion, diversion, misuse, and abuse.  Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high - more Americans currently abuse prescription drugs than cocaine, hallucinogens, and heroin combined.  According to a survey of users, the majority of abused prescription drugs come from family and friends.

US DEA Drug Take Back events provide for the safe disposal of prescription medications that may otherwise languish in medicine cabinets, and making your family a target for theft and abuse. 

How can parents prevent drug abuse?

* Establish and maintain good communication with your children.
* Get involved in your children's lives.
* Make clear rules and enforce them consistently.
* Be a positive role model.
* Help your children choose friends wisely.
* Talk to your children about drugs.

Addiction Center - Professional web guide that connects individuals struggling with addiction to treatment options.

Addiction Resource - help better educate families about substance abuse and motivate the ones who may be suffering to seek the support they need. 

Alcohol and Drug Foundation - Search drug name, slang or effects.

Alcoholism Warning Signs - Help for identifying warning signs.

Come As You Are Coalition (CAYA) - Come as you are is a safe an nonjudgmental community for families affected by addition

DEA Controlled Substance Facts - Search by drug categories to find what they look like and descriptions.

Drug Take Back Events - US Department of Justice - Diversion Control Division

Drug Wheel - classifies drugs as part of seven general categories.

GetSmartAboutDrugs.com - for parents, caregivers and educators

How to Read a Drug label - Guide that provides tips from health experts to help you learn how to read a drug label.

Just Think Twice - for teens

OperationPrevention.com - Discovery Education

Resource Directory - Directory for local resources.

Safe Prescription Drug Use - Understand the risks of certain medications.

StartYourRecovery.org is a free, confidential resource developed with the input of leading clinicians, experts from the White House and SAMHSA, and people in recovery themselves. The website helps individuals take steps toward a healthy relationship with drugs and alcohol. Here visitors learn about the experiences of people like them and find the answers they need for recognizing and dealing with substance use issues.