While youth alcohol and tobacco use has declined in Missoula, underage marijuana use is on the rise. According to the Youth Risk Behavior Survey, the past 30-day use for high school students has increased 22% from 2019 to 2021. Healthy Missoula Youth is a substance use prevention coalition coordinated through Missoula Public Health. Healthy Missoula Youth is investigating underage marijuana use and other data related to marijuana use in the Missoula area. The coalition will share their findings about youth marijuana use, youth hospitalizations and DUIs from a scan of dispensaries at the C.S. Porter Middle School library from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 24.
Young brains are rapidly growing and changing during adolescence, making them more vulnerable than adults. Exposure to substances can cause long-term damage. Research has shown that youth marijuana use puts young people at increased risk of developing anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, cannabis-induced psychosis and substance use disorder.
Learn what parents, guardians and the community can do to discourage underage marijuana use and protect developing brains. Join us for an evening of conversation and community-based solutions, no registration is required.
Photo courtesy of Missoula Public Health.