Talk They Hear You

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It’s normal for teens to be curious- and that can include trying substances. A 2023 survey  [Healthy Kids Colorado] of young people across Colorado found that:  

  • More than 46% of high schoolers had ever tried more than a few sips of alcohol;  
  • 30% had ever tried a nicotine vape;  
  • 9.7% had ever tried a drug other than tobacco, alcohol or marijuana- this includes misusing prescription medication;  
  • More than 26% had ever used marijuana.  

 

But there’s another way to frame this:  

  • 54% of high schoolers have never tried more than a few sips of alcohol;  
  • 70% had never tried a nicotine vape;  
  • 90.3% had never tried a drug other than tobacco, alcohol, or marijuana;  
  • 73.7% had never tried marijuana.  

Even fewer middle schoolers are using substances-only 6.5% had ever tried marijuana. Most teens don’t use drugs or alcohol, no matter how common it may seem. This is good news- young people are at a higher risk for negative effects from substance use than adults.

The trusted adults in a teen’s life, especially their caregivers, make a major difference in whether a teen chooses to experiment with substances and their ability to quit if they already use them. Close relationships, clear messages about expectations, and a safe place to share can help keep young people safe as they navigate complex relationships and choices for the first time. A conversation today can shape a decision tomorrow.

Find information to help with every stage of the conversation- from preventing substance use in individuals and families to helping a teen who already uses substances get the support they need.

Talk They Hear You Resources

Talk They Listen Parent Resources

Talking With Your Teen Brochures

Answering Tough Questions Guide

Hable. Ellos escuchan.

Prevention

CDC Prevention (English)

SAMSHA (Spanish)

Weld County is now offering Strengthening Families (Ages 10-14) classed in Greeley and Milliken! Read more about the free, 7-week program Strengthening Families (Ages 10-14), and reach out to Alyssa at a AGalarza@weld.gov if you want to register for the next upcoming cohort!

Screening

Screen4Success user-friendly screening tool for you and those you care about. Specifically, it provides a better understanding of personal health, wellness, and well-being. Screen4Success

NIDA S2BI screening (ages 12-17, parent/clinician or self-administered, English)

CRAFFT screening (Self administered, more languages available, ages 12-21)

Treatment & Recovery

Learn how to positively support yourself while supporting loved ones with substance use disorder

First step can always be pediatrician or GP

North Range Behavioral Health

Porch Light Health

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