For many young people today, the dangers of date-rape drugs are unfortunately growing and going to a party, many do not know how to avoid them so they do not worry about it. Date-rape drugs are commonly used to make a person more susceptible for sexual assault and without the knowledge of how to avoid them, young people are at a higher risk of becoming the next predator’s prey.

Luckily, there are ways to avoid becoming a victim of date-rape drugs.

For more information on date-rape drugs, and treatment for addiction please call 800-915-1270 (Who Answers?).

Learn About Date-Rape

You can avoid being drugged by declining drinks from strangers.

If the teen does not know what it is, he or she will not know what to look for, which gives any potential rapist the advantage. Learning about the threat will better prepare them for situations where they may have been drugged to save them from a potential assault.

The adolescent may have questions and it is important for the teacher or parent to answer them as truthfully as possible so that he or she will know they can trust the adult if the worst should happen. Drinkers should also be aware that if they feel drunk before having much to drink or the effects are stronger than usual, the young adult should get help as soon as possible.

Watch Your Drink

According to the UW Police Department, most date-rape drugs are hidden inside alcohol when they are being used, so it is extremely important that the young person always keep track of their drink. According to the Office on Women’s Health, it is important for young people to keep their drinks with them at all times, even if they need to use the rest room and if the drink does get left unattended to pour it out just to be safe.

If the drink does get left out, it is also a good idea for the individual to avoid drinking it if it smells or tastes strange, as some date-rape drugs can give off a salty smell.

Date Rape Drug Addiction: Why You Need to Seek Treatment Now

Avoid Drinks from Others

Young people tend to trust one another regardless of status and when a drink is brought to them, it can be contaminated beforehand. It is important that the individual only drink from unopened containers and not share their drinks.

It is also a good idea not to let strangers or acquaintances get drinks from the bar or at a party and instead go with them so the young person can watch the drink being poured and carry it themselves. A non-drinking friend may also be a good idea to help support the individual and make sure that nothing happens to their drinks if it gets set down.

Date-rape drugs can be terrifying and for many young people, it can be enough to avoid social situations but if they learn how to handle themselves in an environment where the risk is high, they can feel more confident when they are out on their own.

By becoming educated about date-rape drugs, they will be better aware of what situations to avoid and by keeping their drinks with them, they will avoid predators who are looking to drug them for their own agenda. Parties are notorious for date-rape drug attacks so it is important to be cautious of strangers and to be leery of any drink they receive from people they don’t know.

If you or someone you know has been effected by date-rape drugs, please call 800-915-1270 (Who Answers?) to find help.