Understanding Youth Substance Misbuse: The Impact of Cannabis

Jun 7
Substance misuse among youth is a significant concern, and one substance that has gained increasing attention in recent years is Cannabis. As the legalization of Cannabis continues to expand in various states, it is crucial to educate young individuals about its potential risks and make informed choices. 

Introduction

In this blog post, we will explore the statistics surrounding youth Cannabis-use, discuss available health resources for prevention and support, and emphasize the role of social-emotional learning (SEL) in youth substance misuse prevention.

Statistics

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), approximately 9.4% of 8th graders, 23.8% of 10th graders, and 35.7% of 12th graders reported using Cannabis in the past year. The perceived risk associated with regular Cannabis-use has been declining among teenagers, which highlights the need for effective education and prevention programs.

Health Resources

For youth struggling with Cannabis-use, seeking professional help is essential. Organizations like the YESS Institute offer resources such as the YESS Academy Cannabis Awareness & Education course. These programs provide evidence-based information, debunk myths, and promote critical thinking and personal responsibility. It is crucial to connect young individuals with such resources to ensure they have access to accurate knowledge and support.

The role of SEL

Social-emotional learning (SEL) plays a vital role in preventing youth substance abuse. By promoting self-awareness, responsible decision-making, and relationship-building skills, SEL equips young individuals with the tools they need to make healthy choices. Incorporating SEL techniques into drug education programs, like the YESS Academy courses, can empower youth to navigate the complexities of a post-legalization world and make informed decisions about Cannabis use.

Conclusion

Youth substance misuse, including Cannabis-use, is a serious concern that demands our attention. By providing evidence-based education, access to health resources, and incorporating SEL into prevention programs, we can empower young individuals to make informed choices and develop healthy life skills. Organizations like the YESS Institute are at the forefront of this effort, offering valuable courses like the YESS Academy Cannabis Awareness & Education program. Let's work together to build inclusive communities that support our youth on their road to success.

Learn more about our Youth Cannabis Awareness & Education e-Learning course today:
References:
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Monitoring the Future Study: Trends in Prevalence of Marijuana/Hashish for 8th Graders, 10th Graders, and 12th Graders; 2019 - 2019.