Report: marijuana, prescription drug use up among teens
Dec 27, 2009 Online Issue
A national study widely considered to be an important indicator of youth 
drug abuse showed progress with some drugs but widespread problems with marijuana and prescription or over-the-counter drugs.
The study, compiled by the University of Michigan for the federal National Institute on Drug Abuse, found that 7 of the 10 drugs most abused by high school seniors are prescription or over-the-counter drugs acquired primarily from teens’ friends or relatives.
“I am not surprised by this new study because not just teens, but society as a whole is looking for instant gratification … [and] teens are increasingly turning to prescription drugs because they want to feel things in this second,” says Clare Kavin, executive director of the Waismann Method, a drug treatment program. “They have been taught to take a pill to lose weight, to treat acne, to fall asleep, and to focus better in schools. Teens are under the impression that pills are the best way to treat any mental, physical, or social issues.”
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Tags: marijuana, prescription drugs
