OxyCotin presentation reveals dangers of prescription drug abuse

Akwesasne Child and Family Services (ACFS) is committed to protecting Akwesasne’s children from abuse, neglect and emotional or developmental impairment. They understand that the children are the future of Akwesasne and that future is being threatened by the prevalence of Oxycotin abuse in the community. ACFS has been preparing the community by holding training seminars for their counselors and case workers and providing public information sessions for the community. The first of these were held on Jan. 26 at the St. Regis Recreation Center with substance abuse prevention specialist Michael Nerney.

Oxycotin, also known as “Oxy” or “OC”, is an opium-derivative time released drug prescribed for moderate to severe pain relief. When taken as prescribed Oxycotin is relatively safe. But, when taken for recreation it can become highly addictive. This kind of behavior is dangerous because Oxycotin abuse has long lasting effects on the brain that altering chemicals that control emotion and can sever the vital connections between families and their children resulting in neglect or abuse.

ACFS has seen a record number of neglect cases in Akwesasne due to Oxycotin abuse.

“These pills have flooded the community and its scary,” said Leonard Lazore, Resource Development and Community Support Unity Coordinator. “We noticed a big trend for the particular drug in the community and the community needs to hear the issues because it is a big problem affecting families and kids.”

Children between the ages of 12 - 24 are also at a higher risk for substance abuse than adults. Children at this age have a lot going on: they have increased emotional intensity and higher risk-taking behaviors, which makes them more susceptible to peer pressure and the potential for taking imitation Oxycotin drugs that can be even more dangerous.

“Its scary,” said Danielle Lazore-Thompson. “People are going crazy! I came so I can be prepared and informed to do something to help.”

The public information sessions had a great turn out. Some present have been directly effected while others were just curious.

“I know a lot of people on them,” said community member Amber Aliff, “I came to learn more about them how they hurt your body because I am still a teenager.”

The presence of Oxycotin abuse in Akwesasne effects everybody, especially to the children and their future. ACFS encourages parents to: talk to their children about drugs and to listen to their concerns; to get informed by going to information sessions; and not to wait because prevention is the key.

Photo by Mary La France