National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week, NDAFW, is January 23 – 29, 2017. This event is hosted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. This week is a time to answer questions and have open discussions with the young people in your life about the consequences of using drugs and alcohol. The main message and purpose behind this week resonates with us at FATE because we believe the end to addiction is education.

We understand many parents and guardians don’t believe drug or alcohol addiction could ever affect their child, but access to drugs and alcohol is more prevalent than most adults understand. While it isn’t the easiest conversation to have, educating your child on addiction can ultimately save their life.

It’s tempting to simply tell a child not to do something, but it’s important to explain your reasoning so that when you aren’t there, they have facts and information to recall. Information can go further than a stern lecture, especially with sensitive topics.

NDAFW also provides resources to help open the dialogue. The event hosts an online chat where students can ask scientists questions about drugs and alcohol in a comfortable, nonjudgmental setting. This is a great opportunity for kids to actually learn the science behind addiction and understand why it’s best to steer clear from drugs and alcohol altogether.

Consider this week a reminder for parents, counselors, and supervisors to not just tell children to stay away from drugs and alcohol, but to actually listen to their questions and answer them. Knowledge can help teens make educated decisions when temptations comes knocking. Remember that one conversation won’t do the trick. This topic requires an open dialogue with checkups when the time is right.

Interested in having a FATE representative speak at your school? We enjoy the opportunity to educate people about addiction. Contact us.