Pubdate: Mon, 30 Dec 2013 Source: Aurora, The (CN NF) Copyright: 2013 The Aurora Contact: http://www.theaurora.ca/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3219 Referenced: Newfoundland and Labrador 2012 Student Drug Use Survey Note: Highlights Report: http://www.health.gov.nl.ca/health/publications/Drug_Survey.pdf STUDENT DRUG USE REPORT PROVIDES VALUABLE INSIGHT INTO YOUTH BEHAVIOUR According to a 2012 Atlantic Student Drug Use Survey of junior and high school students, almost half of the students surveyed in Newfoundland and Labrador had not used any substances in the previous year, a significant improvement from past survey results. The findings from this survey will be used to inform policies, programs and future campaigns, and will help to identify important opportunities to create awareness and promote prevention of substance use among youth. "The survey results provide valuable insights into the behaviour of youth, and although there are some encouraging trends, it is imperative that we work with parents, schools and students, in particular, to create awareness of the pitfalls of substance use," said the Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Health and Community Services. "Additionally, as the Christmas season approaches and alcohol and drug use tends to increase, I encourage parents to speak with their children about this very important issue." The Atlantic Student Drug Use Survey is a self-reported and anonymous survey of junior and high school students in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Survey results indicate that alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use, such as LSD, among youth in this province is at its lowest since 1996. While cannabis usage remained the same, the age of first use was 14.2 years old, up from 13.5 years old in 2007. Students also reported decreases in driving after alcohol and cannabis use. "Even though there is a significant decrease in the use of substances, there is always room for improvement in educating our children and young people on the dangers of substance use and associated high risk behaviours," said the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Education. Through health curriculum and Safe and Caring Schools initiatives we will continue to promote healthy living among our students, as well as offer resources and supports to students, parents and teachers." A copy of the survey highlights report can be found at www.gov.nl.ca/health/addictions/studentsurvey.html - --- MAP posted-by: Jo-D