AHS Views

The drugs taken in Maine are the same drugs you see everywhere  in the U.S. - the list starts with heroin, then goes on to include OxyContin, methadone, prescription stimulants (Ritalin and Adderall) and, of course, methamphetamines. In Maine, also like everywhere else in the U.S., more addiction help is needed.

“Families are the first line defense in keeping Maine’s youth away from drugs, but public institutions such as schools must play a part,” says a Bangor Daily News editorial. And they’re right: more drug education is needed and more help from the parents is needed. According to the statistics, kids whose parents talk to them about drugs are 50% less likely to take them. Same with alcohol.

We could also use a lot more help from the drug companies who are selling the prescription drugs that are being abused: One in five high school seniors are abusing prescription drugs.

20% of college students may also need addiction help. Drug and alcohol companies could pay over some of their profits to educate young people about the dangers of the products they are selling.

If you know someone in Maine who needs addiction help services, email us or give us a call.