Drug facts week focuses on education of teens

The National Institute on Drug Abuse organized National Drug Facts Week, starting today through Sunday.

Brian Marquis, public liaison officer with NIDA, said the week is organized to teach teens accurate information about the dangers of drugs.

The NDFW website recommends using social media to spread awareness and organizing a NDFW event to get communities involved with the week.

Marquis said more than 1,000 events are planned throughout the country in honor of the week.

This is the fourth year of NDFW.

Marquis said each year the number of events has doubled, with about 500 events planned last year.

He said it is important to help teens understand what they are putting into their bodies because an adult’s brain isn’t fully mature until about age 25.

NIDA created a booklet titled “Drugs Facts: Shatter the Myths” to address teens’ most frequently asked questions about drugs and drug abuse.

A web chat Tuesday will provide a forum for teens to have their questions about drugs answered by scientists.

The website features interactive resources for teens to learn about the effects of drugs on the body.

It also has a section for teachers with sample questions their students might be curious about.

Marquis said many myths are further reinforced by teens’ peers and the Internet.

The perception of drugs is becoming a problem, Marquis said.

He said because more states are legalizing marijuana, teens begin to think that because it’s legal, it’s OK to use.

“As the perception of risk goes down, usage goes up,” he said.

He said he hopes students and teachers will use the resources on their website as supplemental information.

“It’s turned into a viral campaign,” he said. “We can’t be happier with the amount of support.”

The U.S. Department of Education encourages communities to get involved.

“We are pleased our federal colleagues at NIDA have created such an array of resources for students and schools, and that they provide this annual opportunity for students to chat one-on-one with NIDA researchers and to better educate themselves on how drugs can impact their lives,” according to a press release.

Follow reporter Sydney Murray on Twitter @sydlm13.