Wondering how to live a WYSE life?? You start with a good foundation, like picking good friends and avoiding things like drugs (even prescription drugs). Then you add passion, hard work and start chasing your dreams. Finally you invite others to join. Watch the video to learn about these 3 steps. If you need some inspiration scroll down to check out stories of young people just like you making a difference. If you need some tips for things to do (and not do) click here.
TAKE THE PLEDGE
Join the movement of young people just like you. Raise your right hand and commit to taking your life seriously.
“I do solemnly swear to take myself seriously. I will recognize my talents and not hide them from the world. I will treat myself and others with the respect we, as humans, deserve. I will make healthy choices, avoiding abusing any substance including prescription drugs. I will respect and protect the people I love. I will give back to my community and find ways to make my world a better place. I will forgive myself when I fail and learn from my mistakes. I will recognize that no one is perfect. I will work hard and live with integrity. I will give my very best in the pursuit of my dreams. I pledge all of this because – I am worth it.“
STORIES
FEATURED VIDEO
TEAM SKYHAWK
With hard work and determination, Team Skyhawk came in first place at the VEX Worlds Robotic Championship. Hear more of their story!
MORE STORIES
MADISYN’S STORY
JACKSONS FOR JACKSON
GUNNER’S STORY
PAYTON’S STORY
HOLLI’S STORY
IZZY’S STORY
MARY BETH’S STORY
TYRIQ’S STORY
MACKHIYA’S STORY
BRANDON’S STORY
MADISON’S STORY
RIO’S STORY
PARKER’S STORY
LIVE THE GOOD LIFE
We all do have choices. But, the truth is, there are lots of things that will influence your life that are beyond your control. That makes the choices you make important. In this section, we will talk a little about the choices you can make to build a good life. They help create a safety net for when life gives you something unexpected. These tips will make chasing your dreams a lot easier. Just remember, they aren’t magic. You have to work at it. So what are you waiting for? Click the subject you’re interested in to get started.
GET THE FACTS
“So whats this all about?” you ask. It’s simple. You’ve got great potential. That doesn’t have to be something like being a rock star or famous actor either. You’ve got the potential to make a real difference in your community by just being the best version of you. We can probably all agree that being healthy is a great step in the right direction. That’s what this page is all about… getting the facts about what to avoid so that you can be the happy healthy you we know you can be. You have probably heard about all the typical stuff to avoid (drugs, alcohol, etc.) but even things like prescription drugs – the stuff that doctors prescribe – can get in the way. Explore the stuff below.
CHECK OUT THESE WYSE WORDS (VIDEO) ON PRESCRIPTION DRUG ABUSE/MISUSE AND THEN SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE.
WATCH
THE BASICS
QUICK FACTS
- Prescription drug addiction is a growing problem in America.
- It is never okay to take someone else’s pills.
- Taking too many pills or taking pills that aren’t yours is illegal.
- Prescription drug use is dangerous when not under doctor supervision.
- Any kind of addiction threatens your chance at a happy life.
- Drug use gets in the way of creativity, athletics and learning.
TIPS FOR AVOIDING THE PROBLEM
- It’s actually okay to say ‘no’ if someone offers you something you don’t want.
- Not taking a drug doesn’t leave you out of the crowd. It keeps you in the good crowd. There are more people your age not using drugs than using them.
- Set healthy goals for yourself and celebrate when you meet them.
- Choose good friends. A real friend wants you to be happy and healthy.
- Keep yourself focused on the life you want, whether that’s having a family, good job, or being a good friend.
Join The Crowd – Over 80% of Teens are NOT Abusing Prescription Drugs
HONEST ANSWERS TO YOUR REAL QUESTIONS
Are prescription drugs actually dangerous?
When used properly, prescription drugs are not necessarily dangerous. A prescription drug is only safe to take under the direct care of your doctor. Taking a pill or drug that is not prescribed to you could have serious and sometimes fatal side effects.
What is abuse or misuse?
Anytime that you take more pills than are prescribed to you to gain a “high” or take pills that are not yours, it is considered drug abuse or misuse.
Is taking too many pills or taking someone else's pills actually illegal?
Yes. It is against the law to take drugs that are not yours or to use a drug in a way that it isn’t intended. Being caught in possession of a prescription drug that is not prescribed to you is no different that being caught with a traditional illegal drug.
What if my parents give me the pill, is that okay?
That depends. If the pills were prescribed for YOU by a doctor, then yes. If the pills were NOT prescribed for you specifically, then no. Sometimes parents aren’t aware of the dangers of giving you a pill not prescribed to you. Direct them to this site if they have questions. They can obviously give you over-the-counter medicines, but you should always be sure to read all warning labels and directions.
Is this actually that important or such a big deal?
Yes it is. Any drug can have really dangerous side effects including addiction and can even cause death. That might sound like we are exaggerating but we aren’t. Beyond those “big and scary” things, drugs affect your body and without knowing it you can be doing long-term damage to your body.