Addressing Substance Use: A Collective
[email protected] Responsibility Understanding profound & far-reaching effects on all aspects of life. Emphasizing early intervention & comprehensive support. Promoting a supportive, informed, & resilient society. Individual & Academic Consequences Systemic Strain on Families & Society 8.7 million US children live with a parent with Substance Use Disorder. SUD in families increases child physical abuse by 562%, emotional by 329%. Families of drug users have 4x higher healthcare utilization rates. 2/3 of 12th graders tried alcohol; half of 9-12th graders used marijuana. Increased risk of anxiety, depression, psychosis, & suicidal ideation. Cognitive impairments: Memory loss, difficulty concentrating, impaired judgment. Academic decline: Lower grades, poor attendance, higher dropout rates. Proactive Prevention Strategies Fostering Resilient Support Systems Target interventions in early adolescence. Integrate social services with SUD treatment. Provide mental health interventions alongside. Utilize evidence-based interventions. Implement education & skills training in schools. Promote strong family bonding & parental monitoring. Empower youth with informed decision-making resources. Encourage family counseling & community groups. References: American Addiction Centers, NIH NCBI, SAMHSA, RecoveryAnswers.org, Mayo Clinic, Addiction Center.