Opioids & Stimulants
Your guidance matters!
Young people pay closer attention than we think, and the way you talk about and handle stimulants and opioids affects how they view them. Start honest conversations early, be clear about the standards you expect, and keep communication strong. With consistent support from parents and caregivers, we can help prevent youth from experimenting with these drugs.
Click image above for the TN Law
Prescription Stimulant & Opioid Laws
Tennessee’s 2013 law limits pharmacies to dispensing no more than a 30-day supply of certain opioids and benzodiazepines at one time to help reduce misuse and overdose risk. It aims to increase safety by controlling the amount of these powerful medications available.
Stimulants make you smarter or guarantee better grades. Fact: They may increase alertness temporarily, but they do not improve learning or IQ and can harm focus long-term when misused.
Sharing ADHD medication is harmless. Fact: Sharing or taking someone else's prescription is illegal and can cause dangerous side effects.
You can tell if someone is misusing stimulants or opioids just by looking at them. Fact: Many people who misuse these substances do so in secret; signs aren't always obvious.
Prescription opioids can't be addictive if a doctor prescribes them. Fact: They may increase alertness temporarily, but they do not improve learning or IQ and can harm focus long-term when misused.
Youth aren't at risk for opioid misuse. Fact: Teens and young adults are increasingly exposed to pills from friends, family homes, or counterfeit pills containing fentanyl.
Prescription stimulants are safer than other drugs because they’re used to treat ADHD. Fact: When used without a prescription or taken in higher doses than directed, stimulants can cause serious side effects including heart problems, anxiety, sleep disruption, and dependence.
Key Facts About Stimulants and Opioids
Reliable information empowers teens to make informed, healthy decisions. National health agencies offer important guidance on the dangers and impacts of youth misusing stimulant or opioid medications.
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Misusing these drugs can harm your health and development.
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1 in 7 teens have misused prescription opioids.
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Misuse increases risk of addiction, mental health struggles, and risky behavior.
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Injection use can spread HIV & other infections.
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Stay safe: talk to trusted adults, avoid sharing meds, and get support if you need it.
Guidance for Parents and Caregivers
Your guidance matters: Teens are less likely to misuse stimulants or opioids when parents lead the way.
Guide your teen toward a life free from stimulant and opioid misuse.
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Start the Conversation Early – Talk with your teen before they encounter prescription drugs or other substances.
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Set Clear Boundaries – Share your family rules and explain why avoiding stimulant and opioid misuse is important.
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Explain the Health Risks – Misusing these medications can cause addiction, mental health problems, and serious physical harm.
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Cover Safety & Legal Issues – Using prescription drugs without a doctor’s guidance is illegal and can lead to overdose or other dangers.
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Foster Open Communication – Listen to your teen, answer questions honestly, and show healthy, safe behavior.
Modeling Safe Behavior and Responsible Choices
Teens are more likely to misuse stimulants or opioids if they see adults around them doing the same.
Kids pay attention to the behaviors they observe—your actions speak louder than words. Use these strategies to set a healthy example:
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Use Medications Responsibly – Take prescription drugs only as directed and never share them.
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Talk Openly About Risks – Explain the dangers of misusing stimulants and opioids, including addiction and health problems.
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Model Healthy Coping – Show positive ways to manage stress, like exercise, hobbies, or talking with someone you trust.
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Follow the Law – Demonstrate respect for prescription regulations and safe storage of medications.
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Stay Involved – Know your teen’s friends, activities, and daily routines to provide guidance and support.
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Encourage Questions – Be approachable so your teen feels comfortable talking about drugs or pressures they face.
