Pubdate: Thu, 12 Feb 2009 Source: Nelson Star (CN BC) Copyright: 2009 Black Press Contact: http://drugsense.org/url/4kNvY8sy Website: http://www.nelsonstar.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/4866 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth) DON'T BE QUICK TO JUDGE HARSHLY The question is: When does just experimentation become a problem? The IHA and FreedomQuest have completed a survey on drug use amongst students. Not surprisingly, students are trying them. From the time there has been recreational drugs, there have been recreational drugs in schools. Tobacco and alcohol use are still among the most used substances students are exploring. But let's not get too carried away, we shouldn't be out to condemn students for a few silly choices. People need to learn on their own and most of the time that is through experience. And let's face it, if you are going to harshly judge everyone who may use a substance now and then, the Kootenays could be a pretty frustrating place to live. But School District 20, Superintendent Jean Borsa is right, parents should not be seen as condoning or fostering the use of drugs and alcohol. Parents are supposed to be an authority figure, not a bootlegger. The survey shows more than half the students come from two-parent households and around half reported feeling somewhat involved in school. While 'somewhat' may not be a great response, it does provide the hope many of these 'users' are just casual and exploratory. Another promising number is the 82 per cent of students who know where to go to get help - though even with all the help in the world, fear of consequences, denial and embarrassment will always be barriers to help. What is important, is that parents, teachers and students need to know the signs of abuse and when to intervene. If you need help spotting the signs, call the IHA's Addictions Services or Freedom Quest. - --- MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin