National Substance Abuse Prevention Month

On Monday, October 3, President Barack Obama proclaimed October 2011 “National Substance Abuse Prevention Month.”

In his proclamation he said, “By providing strong support systems for our loved ones, and by talking with our children about the dangers of alcohol and other drugs, we can increase their chances of living long, healthy, and productive lives.  During National Substance Abuse Prevention Month, we celebrate those dedicated to prevention efforts, and we renew our commitment to the well being of all Americans.”

I completely concur.

I have volunteered through my Church and with The Foundation for a Drug Free World to get the truth about drugs to children and teens, and I have personally seen the difference it makes when kids understand the liability they face when considering taking drugs.

Obama calls for cooperation and unity in his proclamation, stating  “Through national collaboration, community programs, and the help of engaged youth, parents, guardians, educators, law enforcement officers, clergy, and others, we can build a stronger, healthier America.  This month and throughout the year, let us teach our Nation’s young people to tackle life’s challenges with resilience, hope, and determination.”

I agree with this as well.  No one group is going to handle this problem.  It takes all of us working together.

To anyone considering becoming involved in this issue, I want to let you know of a resource that makes volunteering in this area a delight rather than a chore.

I personally hate being “preachy” and I’ve never seen any evidence that it works.  In fact it’s been my own experience that telling kids what to do often results in them doing the reverse and that could be a real problem in this case!

The Foundation for a Drug Free World documentary is such an effective tool when it comes to drug prevention.  It’s called “Real People—Real Stories” and that’s exactly what it is.  It’s people telling what drugs did to them. It’s sometimes brutally honest but not to the point of being morbid.  You can’t watch the video and come away thinking “it’s no big deal” which is the common excuse most people use when they “experiment” with drugs.