Myth 5 ‘Information on the dangers of drugs prevents drug use’ (Extractos)
“(...) more than just spreading information on the negative consequences of drug use is needed for preventing drug use. In fact, spreading emotion provoking messages on dangers of drugs can even lead to opposite outcomes, as it can increase curiosity, experimentation with drug use, or even increase stigmatization of those already using drugs, so such campaigns need to be planned and implemented with great care. When done correctly, information based campaigns bear great potential in supporting the healthy lifestyles of youth. (...)
Spreading information on negative consequences is not enough for preventing drug use. Having information on the consequences of certain behaviors is generally not enough to help to actually change those behaviors.
For changing our behaviors we need also other help, such as skills, favorable environment, positive norms, intentions and attitudes, and that is why good prevention interventions target the multiple resilience and vulnerability factors beyond awareness, and for example support the learning of various life-skills, or parenting-skills, or aim at providing favorable and supporting environment e.g. via promoting access to good quality education or changing the norms and policies in schools.
