Prevent Drug Use

Abuse of drugs, including tobacco and alcohol, kills more than half a million Americans each year. They die from overdoses, accidents, illness, and other causes.

Drug abuse keeps people from having the best lives they can. Drug abuse can hurt your health, your ability to work, and your relationships.

Treatment works. It helps people recover from addiction.

But the best protection from the dangers of drugs is to not start in the first place. Parents should watch their kids closely—even good kids will try drugs.

Know the facts about drugs and addiction:

• Visit Drugs That People Abuse and What Is Addiction? on this website.

Talk with your children:

• Visit Help Children and Teens Stay Drug-Free to learn more.

Keep your home safe:

• Put your medicines in a safe place. Make sure they can't be taken by others.
• Keep track of cleaners, spray cans, and other stuff in the house that could be inhaled to get high.