Pubdate: Fri, 13 Mar 2009
Source: Bowen Island Undercurrent (CN BC)
Copyright: 2009 Bowen Island Undercurrent
Contact:  http://www.bowenislandundercurrent.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3852
Author: Carrie DeJong
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?135 (Drug Education)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth)

DRUG EDUCATION SERIES STARTS NEXT WEEK

We live in a culture that normalizes alcohol and drug use for teens. 
The use of mood-altering substances is often seen as a means of 
entertainment or a right of passage for many youth. Sometimes, 
personal difficulties such as family problems, anxiety or depression 
can be underlying reasons teens turn to drug use. Some use drugs and 
alcohol as a means of coping rather than simply for fun. But drugs 
can damage a person's mind and body. The consequences of drug and 
alcohol use can be more severe for adolescents than for adults 
because their brains and bodies are still developing.

According to a recent McCreary study, statistics from North Shore 
high schools reflect an alarming trend about drug and alcohol use 
among adolescents: 31 per cent of youth report they have engaged in 
binge drinking in the past 30 days; 63 per cent report they consume 
alcohol at least once a month; 30 per cent report using marijuana at 
least once a month; 11 per cent report using Ecstasy and 9 per cent 
report using cocaine at least once a month.

We do not need to look very far to see the negative results of these 
behaviours. Whether among youth on Bowen who have struggled with the 
negative impacts of substance use, or their West Vancouver classmates 
who have recently died as a result of experimentation, the 
devastating consequences can be seen.

Studies clearly demonstrate that parents who talk to their children 
and monitor their activities can reduce the likelihood of their 
children using drugs. The Orchard Recovery Center and the Bowen 
Island RCMP are teaming up to host several public meetings to examine 
these important issues. We will explore the importance of parents and 
the community in being good role models for our youth around 
substance abuse. We will discuss ways to equip youth in making 
responsible decisions. We will also look at the importance of 
building assets and resiliency that will help our children to develop 
in positive ways and avoid using drugs.

The first information session will be held at the Orchard (911 
Grafton Road) from 7 - 9 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17; additional 
sessions will be held on April 21 and May 12. All members of the 
community are welcome and the sessions are free of charge. Coffee and 
dessert will be served.

For more information, contact Carrie DeJong at 604-947-0420.

Carrie DeJong

Counsellor, Orchard Recovery Centre
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom