Drug and alcohol intake is on the rise. A good indicator of this increase is the amount of drugs seized by the United States drug enforcement agency (DEA) and by other agencies around the world. In England, in September 2011, a whopping 1.2 tons of cocaine was seized. It is clear with these figures that not only is drug smuggling on the rise, but traffickers are getting becoming daring by the day. In this scenario, it is important that people are educated about the rising menace of drug consumption. In high school, all students are made to go through sex education classes. Experts at drug and alcohol treatment centers in Washington State feel that there should be some basic drug awareness classes as well.
Drug Awareness Classes: Experts at Drug and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Washington State Speak
The teen years are the most impressionable years of one’s life. A lot of experimenting takes place in these formative years. Experts at the drug and alcohol treatment centers in Washington State feel that some basic knowledge about the consequences of drug addiction must be imparted in high school. Here are some suggestions:
* Movies and TV shows
Today media and movies play a very important role in the way things are perceived by youngsters. There are a number of movies glorifying drug use and then there are those that emphasize the consequences. Students can be made to watch both these movies, and have discussions centered round the story lines and how the lives of the characters are affected by their choices. Movies, such as Trainspotting and Requiem for a Dream, are a must watch for students.
* Holding discussions and debates
School administrations should encourage debates and discussions about the consequences of drug and alcohol abuse. Experts at drug and alcohol treatment centers in Washington State feel that talking about abuse is a good way to spread awareness.
* Organizing meetings with recovering and recovered people
Having the students meet recovered alcoholics and substance abusers is also a good idea. This is, of course, subject to the approval of the addict in question. Many Alcholics Anonymous members and sponsors volunteer to talk to high school students about the consequences of their choices.
At the end of the day, the future of society lies in the hands of the children and it is your responsibility to ensure that they grow up well informed. Experts at drug and alcohol treatment centers in Washington State feel that drug awareness education is very important at the middle and high school levels.
