The most common substances that young people use are tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana.

A young adult’s brain is still developing. If you start using it at a young age, Dan Siegel says that the brain stops creating the links that help you make goals for your future. It may cause academic problems. It also causes problems with their relationships and mental health issues. May also cause problems with the authorities.

Here are some warning signs: sudden drop in school attendance and a drop in grades.
Changes in appetite, sleeping habits, and physical appearance. Getting in trouble with parents or the law because of risky behavior. Change in overall behavior, more aggressive, paranoid, and secretive.

Talk to them, tell them how you feel, and ask them if they want help. Encourage them to seek the help they need.

Taking a walk, listening to music, reading a book, and going out with friends. Cook or bake with your family, and do some relaxing activities like breathing exercises or stretching.

​We have parent guides to help with how to open the conversation with your kids about drugs. We also have support groups that encourage families of people who struggle with life-controlling issues.

A Youth In The Know presentation can educate and inspire youth to choose healthy options for their well being. We have links to resources to help find the answers. We also have links to other resources.

​Substance use affects the brain in a negative way. It changes the chemistry and causes a loss of interest in pleasurable activities. Grades drop because studying is no longer holding interest, and are distracted by other things. Keeping goals for your future is very important. Choosing a drug-free life will lead you to the best possible future.

In recognizing that you might be struggling is the first step to be free from a possible life-controlling problem. If you keep doing a behaviour even if there are negative consequences. Always wanting more. Can’t stop, financial consequences. Increased tolerance. Cravings, loss of control. Loss of interest in other hobbies or school work. Neglecting responsibilities. Preoccupation and secrecy.

Choose a drug-free life, and encourage friends and the people around you to live a drug-free lifestyle.