DON'T BE QUICK TO JUDGE HARSHLY

The question is: When does just experimentation become a
problem?

The IHA and FreedomQuest have completed a survey on drug use amongst
students.

Not surprisingly, students are trying them.

From the time there has been recreational drugs, there have been
recreational drugs in schools.

Tobacco and alcohol use are still among the most used substances
students are exploring.

But let's not get too carried away, we shouldn't be out to condemn
students for a few silly choices. People need to learn on their own
and most of the time that is through experience.

And let's face it, if you are going to harshly judge everyone who may
use a substance now and then, the Kootenays could be a pretty
frustrating place to live.

But School District 20, Superintendent Jean Borsa is right, parents
should not be seen as condoning or fostering the use of drugs and
alcohol. Parents are supposed to be an authority figure, not a bootlegger.

The survey shows more than half the students come from two-parent
households and around half reported feeling somewhat involved in school.

While 'somewhat' may not be a great response, it does provide the hope
many of these 'users' are just casual and exploratory. Another
promising number is the 82 per cent of students who know where to go
to get help - though even with all the help in the world, fear of
consequences, denial and embarrassment will always be barriers to help.

What is important, is that parents, teachers and students need to know
the signs of abuse and when to intervene. If you need help spotting
the signs, call the IHA's Addictions Services or Freedom Quest.