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It’s a secret none will share. It’s a truth none will confess. Addiction is deemed to be the great shame of the world, is buried deep within the public’s social consciousness. The masses won’t admit that it exists — beyond demanding abstinence. All harmful substances must be avoided: this is the only warning that’s offered.
Such a warning isn’t enough, however. It doesn’t persuade; it merely intrigues.
The dangers of addiction are understood. Too often, however, are those same dangers silenced. Information is censored and conversations are avoided. The notion of substance abuse is deemed to be too awkward — and individuals refuse to consider it.
And this leads to interest from youths: all of whom care nothing for the concerns, want only to experience what their parents seemed so frightened of. It’s a rush of disobedience and the aftermath is a disease.
It is believed that 14 million teenagers are dependent on drugs — with eight percent of the total high school population admitting to a reliance on marijuana and five percent using prescriptions to gain the wanted highs. These numbers are tragic… if only because they could have been prevented.
Battling addiction requires more than refusing to speak of it. It instead demands an education. Students must become aware of the consequences — with all drugs explained and all health concerns examined. Statistics must be offered, with the symptoms of abuse classified again and again. Knowledge is necessary. It must not be denied.
The act of prevention must begin in schools. Children must be offered facts, not simple chides. The result will be success.
