Did You Know...

06-05-08 If you read the crime blotter this week you will get the impression that we have some issues with theft and drugs here in our community. Though our community is a safe place I would agree that we are starting to see a slight rise in random thefts, problems with scams/personal information security, and some drug use issues by our teen age groups. The predominent drug use issues we hear about and deal with continue to be marijuana and prescription drug use. The prescription drug use has grown at an alarming rate as there seems to be a steady supply of prescription meds making there way into the hands of our teenagers and other citizens as well. In a recent article from the Office of National Drug Control Policy they discussed how "Teen Marijuana Use Worsens Depression. During their analysis they found that recent data shows that teens were "self-medicating" themselves for depression symptoms with marijuana and other drugs. The study found that teens reported using marijuana and other drugs to "feel good", "feel better", "relieve stress", and to "cope". The study also found that self-medicating would actually worsen depression, lead to more serious mental health issues like schizophrenia, anxiety, and even suicide. The study also found that three-times as many girls reported being depressed as boys. Often one of the keys to helping a teen with depression or other issues is parental (guardian) involvement/support. Don't dismiss changes your teen's behavior as a "phase" as there could be more serious issues that need your attention. Make an effort to understand the pressures and influences on young people. Teens who report having conversations with their parents about alcohol and drug use are more likely to stay drug-free than those who don't talk about substance abuse. Take the time and make the effort to talk to your teens and to be involved in their lives. Don't let them self-medicate to ease their problems.