JULY 2006

Drug awareness dvds available in local libraries

Every local library in Ireland is to receive two DVDs as part of a new awareness campaign urging parents across Ireland to educate themselves about drug misuse and discuss the issue with their teenage children.

'Empower': The family guide to understanding drugs in Ireland,' is a 30 minute DVD aimed at parents and teens, which will be available for free loan from all 382 local libraries throughout the country from this week 3rd - 7th July. Supported by Schering-Plough Pharmaceuticals (Ireland) and developed by the HSE and the Tipperary Regional Youth Service (TRYS), it is the story of one Irish teenager's experience with drug misuse and offers advice on the signs of drug addiction and a guide to drug terms and language.

HSE substance misuse counsellor, Tom Needham, said Empower DVDs would be available for loan at each of Ireland's 382 local libraries, and campaign posters had been distributed to more than 1000 health centres, youth clubs and community organisations across the country. "Drug misuse can be a confusing and daunting subject for many parents. We hope this DVD can provide clarity on the topic and give families clear information and advice. In many cases, parents have no idea of what drugs are available or how to recognise the signs of drug misuse in their own children." He concluded: "Two many families have already been wrecked by drug addiction and misuse. With the support of Schering-Plough, we have been able to produce and distribute a tool for families to help fight the war on drug misuse - starting in their own household."

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