The drug abuse problems in New York do not begin with the teens, but the parents. Parents need more education in regard to drugs, and this is just what New York is attempting to do:  educate parents. However, state agencies are also implementing drug educational programs in their school system to begin teaching grade school age youngsters about the dangers of drugs. There are 2 types of substances that seem to pose a problem with regard to New York’s teen drug problems:

1)    Prescriptions drugs

Prescription drugs become a problem when they are taken in ways other than prescribed. Addictions can arise quickly and not realized until it has already occurred. Many teens find these drugs in their medicine cabinets at home. They very often take these meds that are prescribed by a family member. Sad, but true, many addictions begin right at home, under the nose of kids’ parents.

2)    Street(illicit) drugs

Many teens try drugs “on the streets”, because they are curious or pressured by their peers; or both. These substances are very dangerous for teens, due to the fact that these teens do not realize the type of drug or strength that they are purchasing and/ or consuming. There is a high % of overdosing, due to this.

No matter what the source of a teen’s addiction, much can be contributed to the lack of knowledge that each individual has incurred. With more focus on education, the trend of drug addiction is beginning to lighten up. However another step toward the prevention of drugs lies within the borders of the law. When drug users are busted for “possession”, this sends out a warning and/ or message to all teens that if they pursue illicit drugs the penalties and / or repercussions can be stiff; harsh enough to put a detriment upon their lives and future plans. This, in itself, can be enough to stop some teens; however, many feel that they will not get caught, and decide to “take a chance”. Since state agencies focus on the prevention of drugs, they also realize that there must be some concentration on the treatment and/ or cure for those teens already addicted. Treatment centers, rehab facilities, support groups, educational  school drug programs, as well as relapse activity   curriculums  are on the rise in New York and are on their way to reducing the drug addiction problems with regard to the teenage population.