David Sheff on Teen Prescription Drug Abuse: A Parent's Perspective
This is a disease that can happen to anyone...to try to understand this disease and to try to understand how we can help somebody who's struggling with this disease.
Ever wondered how widespread teen prescription drug abuse really is? In this eye-opening episode of 'One Hour AT A Time', host Mary Woods sits down with David Sheff, an acclaimed author and advocate for addiction recovery. David, known for his bestselling book 'Beautiful Boy', shares his deeply personal experience as a parent navigating his child's addiction. Together, they tackle the alarming rise in teen prescription drug misuse, particularly stimulants like Ritalin and Adderall.
Sheff discusses the shocking statistics and the contributing factors, such as the easy access teens have to prescription medications from family and friends. He also highlights the crucial role of communication between parents and teens, noting that only a small percentage of teens have ever discussed prescription drug misuse with their parents.
The episode doesn't just stop at identifying the problem; it also explores solutions through The Medicine Abuse Project, a national campaign aimed at raising awareness and preventing prescription drug abuse. Through heartfelt stories and practical advice, this conversation offers hope and actionable steps for families grappling with addiction. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply concerned about this growing epidemic, this episode provides valuable insights and strategies to help make a difference.