The age old adage of "Prevention is better than cure" holds true because habits such as smoking, taking drug or alcohol are more likely to be taken up at a young age, more during adolescence. Hence, it is best to identify the situations that may push an adolescent towards use of drugs or alcohol, and to remedial measures well in time.

In this regard, the parents and the teachers have a special responsibility.

Parenting that combines with high levels of nurturance and consistent discipline, has been associated with lowered risk of substance (alcohol/drug/tobacco) abuse