61.4% of students have not talked to their parents about the dangers of nonmedical use of prescription drugs in the past year. (TN Together Student Survey, 2022-23)
2.9% of Tennessee students reported misusing prescription drugs in the past 30 days. (TN Together Student Survey, 2022-23)
42% of students who misused in the past 30 days reported use on six or more days, defined as high frequency use. (TN Together Student Survey, 2022-23)
MCPC works to prevent prescription drug misuse through:
Policy, Practice, or Procedure Change
Increase the practice of caregivers discussing the dangers of prescription drug use with their dependents.
Providing Information
Conduct social media campaigns targeting parents on how to talk to youth regarding prescription drug use.
Provide prescription abuse rates to organizations and civic groups.
Provide parents with a prescription drug “Talk. They Hear You” guide.
Building Skills
Train parent trainers on how to inform and mentor other parents on having meaningful conversations with their dependents about prescription drug use.
Provide presentation training for parents and young adults on “Talk. They Hear You” guide.
Providing Support
Provide yard signage to parents participating in parent peer training.
Provide “Talk. They Hear You” trainings and materials to parents.
Increase Barriers/Reduce Access and Reduce Barriers/Increase Access
Provide medication lock boxes to parent groups.
Provide Redline information on coalition training material.
Participate in Drug Take Back Events.
Changing Incentives/Consequences
Hold recognition event for members that actively participate in strategies.
Changing the Physical Design of the Environment
Provide permanent drug drop box location signage for display at pharmacies.