Other studies have found that parent-child communication can offset the influence of friends on teen substance abuse. Substance abuse can be treated after it is part of a person's life. There are similar meetings for people who are addicted to other substances. This reinforces the idea that substance abuse can be treated, but not cured. There are also meetings for the family members of substance abusers.
Substance abuse crosses all boundaries of income, sex, religion, color, and education.
Health care providers need to screen all their patients for substance abuse when doing routine physical examinations. If you suspect anyone you know of substance abuse, encourage them to seek treatment. It could be a matter of life and death.