MARIJUANA IS A BIGGER PROBLEM THAN SOME THINK

With all the news about the devastating effects of drugs such as
ecstasy, heroin and cocaine, it's easy to understand why some kids and
even parents believe that marijuana is harmless.

I have seen the destructive effects of marijuana on the lives of young
people. Marijuana use by teens can lead to a host of health, social,
learning and behavioral problems. Parents must take action to help
decrease marijuana use by kids in our community.

Many parents and adults, based on their own experiences with the drug,
still believe that marijuana is benign and not as serious as other
drugs such as ecstasy. Some adults may feel there is nothing they can
do to stop their kids from experimenting. Research shows that parents
are the most powerful influence on children when it comes to drugs.

It's time to send a "wake-up call" to parents about marijuana. We need
to give parents the facts about the risks of marijuana use and educate
them about the things they can say and do to prevent their kids from
using the drug. For more information on how to talk to your children
about marijuana, contact the Campbellsville Taylor County Anti-Drug
Coalition at 789-1925, the Central Kentucky Agency for Substance
Policy Local Board at 465-9945 or visit www.theantidrug.com. Young
people deserve to know that marijuana is a serious drug with serious
consequences. Help us tell them.

Karen Hayes

Campbellsville Taylor County Anti-Drug Coalition co-chair

Central Kentucky ASAP Local Board Coordinator

Campbellsville