Youth Resources
A great way to stay informed, educated, and updated about prescription drug misuse is to do more research! Check out the resources below to learn more about prescription drug misuse and what you can do to contribute to its solution.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The “Opioid Overdose” page of the CDC’s website provides an overview of the prescription drug abuse epidemic throughout the U.S. as well as data and resource information, including the CDC’s Guidelines for Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain. This site also includes a publication resource center with downloadable CDC educational materials.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
NIDA’s mission is to lead the Nation in bringing the power of science to bear on drug abuse and addiction. This links to the Prescription Drug Abuse Chart page, where you can see commonly prescribed opioids and associated health effects.
NIDA for Teens
This site offers students a range of educational experiences as they learn about drugs and neuroscience and supports educators and parents in facilitating student learning. It also includes advice on how teens can help themselves, a friend, parent, or other adults who have a substance problem.
Teens Health
Teens Health is a private place for teens who need honest, accurate information and advice about health, emotions, and life. This resource is accessible all 24 hours for teens to get doctor-approved information they need to make educated decisions — or help a friend who needs advice. There’s a lot of confusing, misleading, and just plain wrong health information on the Web. Their mission is to tell it to you straight.
Song for Charlie
Song for Charlie is a family-run nonprofit charity dedicated to raising awareness about ‘fentapills’ — fake pills made of fentanyl. They partner with experts, educators, parents, and other influencers to reach the most vulnerable group: young people between the ages 13-30. Their programs highlight the emerging dangers of self-medication and casual drug use in the fentanyl era and encourage healthier strategies for coping with stress.