A startling new survey reveals that 1 in 10 seniors in the Washington County School District are using marijuana, prompting urgent discussions about the implications of substance use among teens. During a recent government meeting, local leaders highlighted the concerning trend, linking marijuana use to poor academic performance and strained family relationships.

Peer pressure emerged as a significant factor driving teens to experiment with drugs. One student emphasized the importance of resisting offers at parties, stating, “You gotta be tough and say no and leave.” Despite recreational marijuana being illegal in Utah, misconceptions fueled by laws in neighboring states have led some teens to believe that using cannabis is acceptable.

The meeting underscored the serious risks associated with marijuana use, particularly for developing brains. Neuroimaging studies indicate that even casual use can alter brain structure and function, increasing the likelihood of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. “Kids get the wrong message,” one participant noted, stressing that many do not recognize the dangers of using marijuana as a coping mechanism.

In response to these alarming trends, the Gray Matters campaign was introduced, coinciding with Mental Health Awareness Month. This initiative aims to foster open conversations between parents and children about the risks of marijuana use. Displays will be set up at local clinics to encourage dialogue, allowing parents to engage with their kids about the dangers of substances like marijuana.

The campaign seeks to empower families with knowledge, providing resources such as QR codes linking to informative websites. As one advocate stated, “We need to create an environment that doesn’t expose kids to harmful things.” The message is clear: avoiding marijuana in all its forms is crucial for the well-being of the community’s youth.