Pubdate: Wed, 28 Jan 2015
Source: Morning Star, The (CN BC)
Copyright: 2015 The Morning Star
Contact:  http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1352
Author: Richard Rolke

LOCAL PHYSICIANS FOCUS ON TEEN SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Parents may worry about cocaine or other drugs but substances closer
at hand may present more harm to their children.

The Vernon School District will present a public discussion on the
medical aspects of teen substance abuse Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Vernon
Secondary School.

"When you talk to kids and families, they have a perspective on drugs
and alcohol and it's based on misconceptions," said Doug Ross, the
district's substance abuse prevention counsellor.

However, while there is a focus on cocaine and other hard drugs,
Rogers says 90 per cent of drug-related deaths in Canada involve
tobacco and alcohol.

"It's important to know what it's doing to our kids," he said of
tobacco, alcohol and marijuana.

The presentation will involve three local physicians - David Smith,
Chris Cunningham and Mike Concannon.

"What are the medical consequences and mental health consequences of
those substances?" said Rogers.

Along with information about marijuana, alcohol and tobacco, the
speakers will also offer suggestions on teaching young people
appropriate coping skills.

"We need to talk about the medical impact and fact-based information,"
said Rogers.

"We need to teach our kids resiliency. Parents and grandparents can
help kids with that."

The presentation is free to attend and children and youth are
welcome.

For more information about the presentation, call Rogers at
250-549-6179.
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MAP posted-by: Matt