River Cities Business Journal: Education

New approach to combat drugs; Outreach program working through employers at workplace

river cities business journal

Mohave County is trying a new tactic in addressing drug problems with young and old alike - it's taking the message to people where they work through their employers.

Carol Smith-Carter, Community Health Educator with the Mohave County Department of Public Health, is working with businesses to set up employee meetings where she can inform them of the various assets available to combat drug abuse.

She is also armed with some alarming facts, like the average age of first drug use in Arizona is 13.

And that 10 percent of all tenth grade students have tried methamphetamine.

And that 62 percent of all teens say it's easy to swipe prescription pain relievers from their home medicine cabinet.

Smith-Carter sets up meetings for brown bag lunches or other times that are convenient for employees and employers alike to stage seminars on how to combat drug abuse.

During these presentations she also points out there are some positive statistics, but they require action.

One of the most effective ways to keep youngsters from trying drugs is simply for parents to talk to them about the harmful effects.

When parents talk to their teens on a regular basis the children are 50 percent less likely to try taking drugs.

The media is a strong influence as well.

According to a RoperASW study teens who are exposed to at least one anti-drug ad per day are 38 percent less likely to try methamphetamine, 31 percent less likely to try crack/cocaine and 29 percent less likely to try ecstasy.

Smith-Carter's office also offers presentations for schools.

But, it isn't just the kids who the program targets.

“One in five Arizona seniors abused prescription drugs in 2006,” Smith-Carter said. “People feel there is no risk factor with prescriptions.”

The Mohave County Drug Education & Prevention Program in cooperation with the Partnership for a Drug-Free America also offers a variety of printed and online information in both English and Spanish that is available through the Mohave County office (928) 758-0722, ext. 2036 or e-mail Smith-Carter at carol.smith-carter@co.mohave.az.us