Routine Prevention

As you take steps to promote your child’s health and wellbeing you should also take steps to prevent substance abuse.

This informational campaign comes to you in partnership with the Tuscarawas County Anti-Drug Coalition.

Being proactive early helps prevent substance use disorder later. According to the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University, amongst Americans with a substance use disorder, 90% began before they turned 18 years old.

Knowing the statistics for substance use disorder for individuals that use before the age of 18, increases the necessity for preventative measures. Parents tend to be proactive about preventing other medical conditions, it’s imperative that parents are intentional about preventing substance abuse. Taking children for routine dental checkups and teaching them how to brush their teeth is just as important as promoting a drug-free life.

Take time now to promote a drug-free lifestyle to reduce the chance of your child developing an addiction later. There are tools and resources available to help you incorporate prevention efforts into your life. Genetics cannot be changed, however, there are ways to impact whether or not your child will use.

Schanel Harvey

Reporting