In most drug abusers the problem starts in childhood or the early teenage years. For almost all youngsters it is the "okay" drugs, tobacco and alcohol, that form the "gateway" to the use of the "not okay" drugs, which are all of the others. One study found that a teenaged user of marijuana is eight times more likely also to be a cigarette smoker than is a teenager who does not use marijuana.

Family-based prevention programs should enhance family bonding and relationships and include parenting skills; practice in developing, discussing, and enforcing family policies on substance abuse; and training in drug education and information. Bonding can be strengthened through skills training on parent supportiveness of children, parent-child communication, and parental involvement.

Parental monitoring and supervision are critical for drug abuse prevention. These skills can be enhanced with training on rule-setting; techniques for monitoring activities; praise for appropriate behavior; and moderate, consistent discipline that enforces defined family rules. Drug education and information for parents or caregivers reinforces what children are learning about the harmful effects of drugs and opens opportunities for family discussions about the abuse of legal and illegal substances.

Prevention programs in schools for young children should target improving academic and social-emotional learning to address risk factors for drug abuse, such as early aggression, academic failure, and school dropout. Education should focus on the following skills:
-self-control
-emotional awareness
-communication
-social problem-solving
-academic support, especially in reading

Prevention programs in schools for older children should increase academic and social competence with the following skills:
-study habits and academic support
-communication
-peer relationships
-self-efficacy and assertiveness
-drug resistance skills
-reinforcement of anti-drug attitudes
-strengthening of personal commitments against drug abuse

Always keep yourself involved in extra-curricular activities or sports. The more active and busier you are, the less likely initiation and persistence of substance abuse will occur. Also, surround yourself with others who have the same values and morals as you do. If your friends are doing drugs, you will probably be offered them and, therefore, have more opportunity and a greater chance of trying them.