Prevention
At the present time, research about prevention programs specifically focused on meth is limited. At least one research project points to the success of a comprehensive approach to meth prevention for a youth audience. In this report, the combination of a school-based prevention program, plus a family-focused intervention, shows promise in reducing adolescent meth use.
For those concerned about a family member or friend, learning
the signs and symptoms of meth is the first step in early
intervention.
Currently, more research must be conducted to determine the effectiveness of prevention programs focused on meth use in the young adult population, particularly since meth usage typically starts in the late-teen years or early twenties – a time when young adults are less likely to be involved in school, family or community prevention programs.
Although meth-specific prevention research is limited, the National Institute on Drug Abuse has developed “Prevention Principles” to serve as the foundation of effective substance abuse prevention programs to combat general drug abuse; these principles are grounded in research about effective drug abuse prevention programs.
According to these principles, drug prevention programs should be comprehensive, and they are most effective when they address individual risks for abusing drugs; include family, school, and community prevention efforts; and are consistent with an overall campaign message and delivery. As such, drug prevention programs should be comprehensive and inclusive, aiming to prevent all illicit drug use, often by preventing use of those drugs considered the drugs of first use.
- Addressing Risk and Protective Factors – Many factors
can contribute to a person’s risk for drug abuse, from aggressive
behavior and exposure to substance abuse to poverty and peer pressure.
Protective factors, including strong family bonds and academic success,
can help to counter those risk factors.
Prevention programs should work to strengthen those protective factors while addressing all forms of drug abuse – whether taken alone or in combination with other drugs. Education about drug abuse should address illegal and legal drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medications. All programs should be tailored to address risks specific to the local community and audience characteristics, such as age, gender, and ethnicity, to improve program effectiveness.
- Prevention Planning –
Family, school, and community programs should all be incorporated
to maximize prevention campaign effectiveness.
- Family Programs - Family-based prevention programs should strive to enhance family bonding and relationships. Parental monitoring and supervision are critical for drug abuse prevention.
- School Programs - Prevention programs in the school setting can be designed to address a wide range of school-aged students, from elementary school-aged children to high school-aged teens, depending on the substance and nature of the drug-related topics.
- Community Programs - Programs aimed at key transition points,
such as the transition to middle and high school, have proven
effective, even among high-risk families and children. Reaching
people in various settings – school, clubs, faith-based organizations,
through the media, etc. – can help to validate and maximize prevention
efforts.
For more information about drug abuse prevention:
For more information about community drug abuse prevention coalitions, visit the Drug-Free Communities Support Program site or the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) site.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Center for Abuse Prevention works with states and communities to develop comprehensive prevention systems that create healthy communities in which people enjoy a quality life. This includes supportive work and school environments, drug- and crime-free neighborhoods, and positive connections with friends and family. For more information, visit www.prevention.samhsa.gov
