In 2023, drug overdose deaths declined for the first time since 2018, yet adolescent overdose rates have surged alarmingly, revealing a critical public health crisis.
An average of 22 Americans ages 14 to 18 died from drug overdoses weekly in 2022, with regions like Maricopa County and Los Angeles as overdose hotspots.
The traditional fear-based strategies to prevent youth drug use, like those implemented through D.A.R.E., have largely failed and need to be replaced with science-based education.
Successful drug prevention, like the Truth Initiative, emphasizes understanding teen psychology and delivering relatable, compassionate educational messaging rather than fear tactics.
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