How did we get to an increase in addiction to pain killers in teenagers?

The main reasons for the increase in addiction to prescription painkillers in teens are the three A’s accessibility, apathy, and acceptance.

Accessibility – as near as any parent’s medicine cabinet.

Apathy- the attitude in the US is “medicate to feel great”. This is reinforced by large advertising campaigns, and celebrity endorsements which obviously influence attitudes and behaviors.

Lastly acceptance- prescription painkillers are not considered street drugs, and since technically a doctor’s prescription is needed they are thought to be ok.

These three situations are a recipe for disaster for teens and adults alike because by the time anyone knows there is a problem most are deep into their addiction both psychologically as well as chemically.