MARIJUANA APPROACH A GREAT START TO WEED OUT PROBLEMS

It's quite possible that Grey-Bruce Public Health has hit the nail on
the head through the 'What's With Weed' program.

The best way to recognize a drug problem is to listen to the
experiences of those who smoke marijuana and have had problems, as
well as those who use and don't have issues.

This was the case at a training seminar for peer leaders held at the
CAW Centre on Thursday. Students were able to openly share their
experiences, both positive and negative, in order to narrow down a
message to relay to Grade 9 students.

The approach recognizes that marijuana, although illegal, is a part
of society that isn't going away. For too long has the approach been
'Say No To Drugs' and it seems they've abandoned that approach in
order to replace it with the message that drugs are everywhere, know
the risks, know what you want with your life and make an educated decision.

It takes guts for the students involved to come forward with their
experiences, but public health has recognized many failed attempts at
reaching youth about marijuana and have instead harnessed their
knowledge, rather than preaching what's not fully understood.

This issue goes far deeper than many people wish to acknowledge and
in this case, a sense of acceptance and empowerment for these
students who smoke marijuana may be the most affective way to reach
those with problems and get them to come forward, seek help and move
beyond their use.

- --Troy Patterson