Knowledge becomes power 
when you use it.
Use these facts to start conversations with your teens, connect with other parents, and strengthen prevention efforts in Middletown.
The most commonly used substance
Data shows that alcohol is the most widely consumed substance among teenagers. Early alcohol use significantly increases the risk of developing alcohol use disorders later in life and can impact brain development, academic performance, and decision-making abilities during these crucial formative years.
Facts to consider and share:
Early conversations matter more than trying to have the perfect talk. You don’t need to be an expert—start early, and keep the dialogue going.
Not “everybody’s doing it.” Teen alcohol use is down, and the majority of teens report never having consumed alcohol.
Remember, kids are impacted by peer pressure & social influences, both positive and negative!
Parental behavior makes a difference! Teens often turn to alcohol to deal with anxiety, depression, or social stress. Show them another way by modeling healthy coping skills!
Social connection and meaningful activities are powerful. Positive prevention means promoting substance-free activities & creative outlets, and not only focusing on risks.
Cannabis
Higher potency, higher risks
Today’s cannabis isn’t what previous generations used, and many teens and parents don’t realize how these changes affect safety and health risks. This makes honest, fact-based conversations more important than ever.
Facts to consider and share:
Cannabis potency has dramatically increased. Today’s cannabis products often contain 15–30% THC, compared to 3–5% in the 90s.
Teens underestimate the risk of driving impairment. Teen drivers who use cannabis are 3–7x more likely to cause motor vehicle accidents.
Vaping cannabis is NOT healthier. Cannabis vapes contain harmful additives and allow for much higher THC consumption.
Edibles can sneak up on teens. Since they have a delayed effect, teens will eat more, resulting in an unexpectedly intense high—sometimes leading to an ER visit.
Vaping
The threat you can’t see
Vaping isn’t just harmless water vapor—it contains addictive nicotine as well as chemicals and heavy metals that harm lung health and development. Teens who vape are also more likely to start smoking traditional cigarettes later.
Facts to consider and share:
Vaping nicotine is highly addictive, especially for teens. Teen brains are more vulnerable to nicotine addiction and can become dependent after just a few uses.
Vaping poses serious health risks beyond nicotine addiction. Teen vapers face reduced lung function as well as greater susceptibility to respiratory infections.
Address the “it’s just water vapor” misconception directly. Explain that they’re also inhaling nicotine, heavy metals, and other harmful, unknown chemicals.
Many teens don’t even realize they’re using nicotine. Surveys show that a significant portion of teen vapers believe they’re using “just flavoring.”
Opioids
Legitimate meds, legit risk
MPC educates youth and families on opioid risks, distributes lock bags and boxes for safe medication storage, and hosts Narcan trainings to prevent misuse and save lives. Opioid overdoses account for over 70,000 deaths annually in the U.S., and nearly 70% of teens who misuse prescription drugs get them from friends or family.
Facts to consider and share:
Prescription opioids are a gateway to more dangerous illegal substances for many teens. Most teens who misuse opioids start with illegal RX meds. Adding to the concern, today’s illicit drug supply is contaminated with fentanyl.
Prescription misuse often starts with legitimate medical use. Many teens who develop opioid problems first received pain meds for injuries, surgeries, or dental procedures.
Secure and monitor all prescriptions in your home. Lock up all meds, not just opioids—teens also misuse stimulants, anxiety medications, and other prescriptions. And dispose of unused excess medications!
Many teens who misuse opioids are self-medicating. Ensure your teen has access to appropriate mental health support and learns healthy coping strategies.
You’re now informed…ready to get involved?
We’re actively recruiting community members to join our coalition. You’ll connect with other parents and professionals interested in helping kids and directly influence prevention efforts in Middletown.
Contact us to get involved and start making a difference.
