Get Support
Prescription painkiller abuse affects many people in Minnesota: those struggling with addiction and their friends and families, students and other young people, parents, health care professionals, and employers. Whether you are a health care professional needing to educate patients about the dangers of prescription painkillers, a young person at risk of prescription painkiller abuse, a concerned parent or friend of someone at risk, an employer with an employee who needs help, or anyone else looking for assistance, see below for support.
For Healthcare Professionals
Healthcare professionals play an important role in preventing prescription painkiller abuse. Find information and resources for healthcare professionals to share with patients.
For Students and Young People
Nearly 1 in 4 teens report taking a prescription drug not prescribed to them, and many young people wrongly believe that prescription drugs are safer and less addictive than illicit drugs. Find out what you can do to help prevent prescription painkiller abuse.
For Young Athletes
Although most young athletes take prescription medications as directed, studies show that approximately 20% of young people ages 12 to 17 have used prescription drugs for nonmedical purposes.
For Parents
More than half of people who abuse prescription painkillers get them through friends or relatives. Find out what parents should know, including how to identify signs of addiction and what to do if they think their child is abusing prescription painkillers.
For Employers
Prescription painkillers are a health and safety issue in the workplace. They have the potential to cause impairment, which increases the risk of workplace error and injury. Find information and resources for employers to share with their employees about the dangers of prescription painkiller abuse in the workplace.
For Anyone Who Needs Help and Treatment
Find information and resources on treatment options for prescription-opioid and heroin addiction.