A Review on Preventing Tragedy: Strategies to Combat the Devastating Effects of Adolescent Drug Overdoses

Adolescent drug overdose deaths are a growing public health crisis, with significant consequences for individuals, families, and communities. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of prevention strategies to combat the devastating effects of adolescent drug overdose. Drawing on a comprehensive literature search of electronic databases, the article evaluates the effectiveness of prevention strategies and identifies risk factors associated with overdose deaths. The review outlines three key prevention strategies, including education and awareness programs, access to treatment and support services, and policy changes and regulations. The article also discusses the limitations and challenges of prevention efforts, including limited access to treatment and support services, the need for more research on effective prevention strategies, and the ongoing challenges posed by the opioid epidemic and the emergence of new synthetic drugs. Overall, this review highlights the urgent need for continued research, innovative prevention strategies, and effective policies to prevent adolescent drug use and overdose deaths and promote healthier communities for all.