What’s in a name?
Student Athlete Chemical Health

During the past five years, we have used the name “chemical health” for our program for athletes in New York State. This has been a wise move, considering that the prior name was conveyed as “Anti Drug”. The negative connotation or stigma attached to a program with drug in it creates a much larger hurdle to clear in this day and age. We can also use this as a wide spectrum program that also encompasses both performance enhancing drugs, supplements, and energy drinks. We have programs in each of these areas, which can impact choices by athletes. We encourage school districts, colleges and universities to use the name chemical health for any program which deals with prevention or intervention in these areas.

Stakeholders have been much more receptive to this term and more open to discussion and consideration. You must also realize that we must first paint a picture for the athlete which illustrates optimal performance before we unveil the negative impact of drug use on performance. Failure to link the positive to the negative will result in negative attitudes that are unfavorable to change or consideration for change.

Our efforts to bring greater attention to the detrimental effects of social drug use have been promoted greatly by the choice of proper terminology and realization that increased awareness and climate for change can be greatly impacted by the choice of a wrong name. Change your name and open doors to your athletes, parents and stakeholders.