The legal landscape and dialogue surrounding marijuana is changing,
and with it we are seeing alarming trends in its use among teens. 

 Overall, most of our students are making good choices. But, any substance use is a problem, and our data shows that for marijuana use, their perception of risk and harm, goes down and not surprisingly, their use increases. 

Among the Birmingham Bloomfield Hills High School Students Surveyed:

• Past 30 day marijuana use has gone up 6% from 2007 to 2011.
• Perceived harm in smoking marijuana once or twice to find out what it's like has decreased 7%, among our high school students from 2007 to 2011.
• Perceived risk of harming oneself as a result of smoking marijuana regularly has decreased 12 % from 2007 to 2011.
• Our 12th grade students past 30 marijuana use rates are higher than the national average; 27% for Birmingham Bloomfield High School Students versus 22% for the National average.   


 
Have you talked with your teen about marijuana use?

Nearly 49% of our teens reported that their parents are the most important adult they would want to talk to if they needed help with a drug or alcohol related problem. Research shows that kids who learn of the risks involved with substance use from their Parents are up to 50% less likely to use drugs or alcohol. 

What's the Harm?

THC, is the main chemical found in marijuana. THC interferes where critical learning and memory take place in part of the brain called the hippocampus. Disrupting its normal functioning can lead to problems studying, learning new things, and recalling recent events.

Marijuana can affect judgment and decision making, resulting in making a dangerous choice, such as engaging in risky sexual behavior, or getting in a car with someone who's been drinking or is high on marijuana.

It's also difficult to know how marijuana will affect a specific person at any given time, because its effects vary based on individual factors: a person's genetics, whether they've used marijuana or any other drugs before, and how much marijuana is taken. Effects can also be unpredictable when marijuana is used in combination with other drugs.

Marijuana can be addictive.  "Marijuana use that begins in adolescence increases the risk they will become addicted to the drug," says Dr. Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, in a statement. "The risk of addiction goes from about 1 in 11 overall to about 1 in 6 for those who start using in their teens, and even higher among daily smokers."

What you can do now...

• Start the dialogue.  Have the conversation with your teen about drugs and alcohol. Be clear about your values, your expectations, and establish consequences. 
• Continue the dialogue. Make sure you check-in often. It may seem as though your teen doesn't want to hear it. It may even be the case. But ultimately, it's our job as parent's to keep our kids safe and substance-free. This is not always an easy conversation, but it is necessary. 
• Get to know your teens' friends, know where they are, who they are with and what situation they are in. Reach out and get to know their friends' parents.

For more information and tips on how to connect with your teen and their ever-changing environment, see our Be a Parent Not a Pal Tool-kit.

 

To be a teen today is a challenge all it's own.  We often hear our adult peers and friends say "I would never want to go through high school today!"  Add to that the courage and determination to stand up and advocate for your choice NOT use drugs or alcohol and you have a whole new level of challenge and commitment. High School goes by fast, is demanding and yet these teens have found their way through, not only balancing, but excelling at academics, faith, family, friends, work, sports, extra-curricular clubs, interests, AND community service as Leaders to the Coalition and the Youth Action Board.

Erin & Kelsey

Erin Brown and Kelsey McClear joined the YAB together as incoming freshman at Seaholm.  From their first meeting at the YAB table, they set themselves apart; participating in the dialogue, volunteering for everything that came up and bringing a new spirit and enthusiasm to the group.  With Erin's committment to acceptance and leadership through the youth voice, and Kelsey's determination to get out in the community and in front of Parents with this important message and mission, they have truly left their mark and a lasting legacy.  Anyone who has attended a Coalition school, community or parent presentation, or heard them talk, knows just what a difference these students have made.  The Coalition and YAB is changed for the better with their service and leadership.  As we welcome a new group of YAB leaders for 2013, we wish them every success for their senior year and life after high school ahead!   Thank you so much Erin and Kesley!

Erin Brown, In her own words...

     I joined the YAB In the spring of my freshman year (2010), I was looking to participate in activities outside of school.  Looking throughout the various groups I realized that this was a chance for me to help make a difference. I had seen teens struggle with drinking and drugs, and I believed that YAB would be a great opportunity and place to support students that don't use substances. 

Erin Brown

     In February of 2012, I had the opportunity to participate in the National Youth Leadership Initiate and Capital Hill Day. This opportunity granted by the Coalition helped me to learn more about leadership and get support for our cause.

     Teen substance use and abuse is an issue in many communities and taken seriously by the youth, parents, schools and other community members. Educating the community can help open perceptions and misperceptions about drugs. With knowledge of the dangers and the consequences of teen substance use, it will create support for those advocating for healthier choices (especially the youth) and initiate action to prevent further drug use. What makes a positive impact on teens is showing them that there are other healthier and safer options, and that they do have a voice.

     I also volunteer with and organization called Common Ground that help adults and youth struggling with drugs, abuse, emotional issues, and need a safe, supportive place to go. I am also a student representative on the Birmingham Historic District Commission and Design and Review Board. I have the change to weight in on the outlook of the homes and businesses in the Birmingham Community.

I work very hard on my academics, and I am planing on going to college this coming fall --where is undecided at this point.

     The most significants things that have come from my involvement with YAB are the relationships I have created and learned from. I have made long-lasting and sincere friendships with the students and supporting adults of YAB. We have become close working together and sharing our passion to make our community a better place. Listening to my friends ideas and experiences has greatly opened up my perceptions about my life. Everyone has been very supportive of one another creating unity and trust in our group. The support of Kelly and Carol has been tremendous as leaders and role-models. I'm so entirely gratefull for all they have done and the inspiration they have given me to be never give up and never stop being passionate.

Kelsey McClear, In her own words...

Kelsey McClear