Why drug education and information isn’t always enough

Drug information alone will not prevent substance use. Environmental factors place some students at far more risk of developing problems than others. 

Although there is benefit in providing accurate drug information and education, this has to be done well  and on its own does not control for the environmental risk factors that students may be susceptible to. For example, if a young person is raised in a home where drug abuse is not only acceptable, but a normal social practice, universal prevention strategies (eg. whole class drug education) may not be enough to prevent that young person from developing a substance use problem. 

In instances where a young person’s experiences suggest they are at risk of developing drug or alcohol related problems, indicated or targeted interventions are often needed. Similarly, where students are already showing signs of emerging drug use or related problems, early intervention approaches are needed.  

Information about drugs does not control environmental risk factors that contribute to problems developing.

Both early intervention and indicated prevention approaches are broad labels for the type of interventions teachers and wellbeing coordinators can provide in a school environment when they are aware of issues. These approaches complement accurate information with support to address the underlying factors which contribute to, or protect against, drug related problems developing. Supporting the development of social skills or helping a student to identify and access activities as an alternative from substance abuse are examples of early intervention or indicated prevention approaches. 

In addition to risk factors there are also ‘protective factors’. These increase a young person’s likelihood of avoiding problematic substance use. Protective factors also occur at different levels of a young person’s life and include strong and supportive relationships with caregivers, positive peer networks, meaningful engagement with school or work, safe and secure housing and a positive relationship with adults outside of the family (such as teachers). Check out this table with examples of risk and protective factors specific to the development of drug and alcohol problems.

There is no single cause or prevention of problematic substance use. However, when risk factors outnumber protective factors, a student is more vulnerable to developing a problem, and less likely to be able to get back on track given the absence of supports and protection. 

Want to know how schools can help? Check out this article about the role of schools in supporting young people.