Focus on underage drinking and drug use

Despite being illegal for teen use, marijuana remains one of the mostused illicit drugs among teens. A 2022 National Institute on Drug Abuse study found 11 percent of eighth-graders, 21.5 percent of 10th-graders, and 32.6 percent of 12th-graders reported the use of any illicit drug in the past year. Adolescents most reported the use of alcohol, nicotine vaping, and cannabis.

Adolescent cannabis use has been linked to mental health problems such as depression and social anxiety, cognitive issues including difficulties with problem-solving and paying attention, and trouble developing healthy coping strategies. These can result in academic and social obstacles.

Catholic Charities of Orange, Sullivan & Ulster helps schools and parents combat adolescent substance use. A focus on prevention, through school curriculum, outreach and training, fights the disease of addiction by helping students develop life skills and coping mechanisms to respond when issues of substance use arise. A partnership with Orange-ulster BOCES provides short-term, school-based, intensive day treatment to help students struggling with substance use maintain academic progress. Outpatient treatment is also available for adolescents.

The earlier teens start using, the greater their chances of becoming addicted or continuing to abuse substances later in life. It’s necessary to break the stigma of addiction by having conversations, being aware of community resources, and knowing that help is available. Amy Kolakowski Goshen Chief clinical officer, Catholic Charities of Orange, Sullivan & Ulster