The BC Adolescent Health Survey III (2003, The McCreary Centre Society) found:
- Substance use among youth has declined in the past 5 years for alcohol, marijuana and harder drugs (marijuana use increased largely between 1992 and 1998)
- Among frequent marijuana users, boys outnumber girls more than 2:1
- Binge drinking (5 or more alcoholic drinks within a couple of hours) is associated with higher injury rates, unprotected sex and other substance use
- Vancouver youth are less likely to drink alcohol than youth in other areas of BC
- Youth of all ages are waiting longer to try alcohol, especially young teens
Students need to be informed about the dangers and consequences of drug use. Prevention Source BC encourages a focus on helping youth build confidence and self-esteem so they become better able to problem solve, make informed decisions about drugs and alcohol and be assertive with their decisions.
Your public health unit can provide information and resources about alcohol, drugs and their dangers.
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