A Dose of Reality for Coaches

Four out of 10 teens believe prescription drugs are less dangerous and less addictive than street drugs. In Georgia, the rate of prescription painkiller overdoses has increased over past recent years among young people ages 12-25.

If you suspect your athlete is at risk

If you notice one of your athletes has begun losing interest, has become withdrawn, depressed, hostile or fatigued for no reason, you may not guess that something is wrong right away. But many of these behaviors can also be signs of drug related problems.

A coach can pick up on other signs that could mean your athlete is at risk:

  • A decline in practice or game performance or attendance
  • Consistently late to practice and/or games
  • Becoming distant from other team members
  • Changing relationships with family and friends

What Coaches can do

  • Understand the risk factors for drug abuse: stress over school work or exams, trouble with friends, depression or anxiety
  • Talk with athletes and parents about the risks and dangers of prescription drugs
  • Encourage parents and athletes to ask healthcare professionals for non-narcotic painkiller alternatives if prescribed
  • Let parents and athletes know that you will stand by them and offer support if they need it
  • Review your school’s policies on drug use and encourage administrators and other coaches to consider updating them to include use and/or abuse of narcotic painkillers
  • Watch athletes for signs of addiction

Resources