I am devoting this blog to the ongoing effort needed to prevent the use and misuse of opioids and other drugs by our kids, who all too often are getting access to them via social media, and more specifically, Snapchat. This insightful article, “Inside Snapchat’s Teen Opioid Crisis,” details heartbreaking stories of parents losing children to overdoses, as well as their courageous efforts to demand that Snapchat be held accountable.

That Rolling Stone Magazine identifies this as a concern indicates the growing consensus for the need to address this avenue of all too easy access to drugs, which are contributing to both physical and mental health crises among our youth, and sadly, in many cases, death. (Please note, this article includes some graphic language related to sexting.)

Schools, faith-based and community organizations are encouraged to schedule the 15 Minute Child Break, PDFNJ’s free substance awareness program for parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches and other adult-caregivers. Appropriate time during these presentations will be devoted to prevention strategies related to social media. I also encourage you to participate in the Knock Out Opioid Abuse Learning Series Webinars.