Did you know that most Maine middle school and high school students do not drink, vape, use cannabis or misuse prescription meds? Did you know that most have never even tried them?
Sometimes it doesn’t feel that way, but it’s true. Knowing the facts about drugs and alcohol can help you make healthy decisions for yourself and be a positive influence.
More than 9 out of 10 students do not currently drink alcohol
More than 9 out of 10 students have never vaped
More than 9 out of 10 students currently do not use cannabis
More than 9 out of 10 students have never misused a prescription pain medication that was not their own
More than 9 out of 10 students do not currently drink alcohol
More than 8 out of 10 students have never vaped
More than 8 out of 10 students currently do not use cannabis
More than 9 out of 10 students have never misused a prescription pain medication that was not their own
Sometimes just talking to a friend shows you care, even if they're not ready for help. Part of being a positive influence is telling the truth even when it’s hard to do. You can help by listening without judging and being kind.
Talk with your friends
Listen without judging
Give support
Offer help when it's right
Share helpful resources
Sometimes what happens at school or with your friends can feel like it’s taking over your whole life. Low self-esteem and depression can be major triggers for not feeling your best. Finding new ways to deal with stress can make a big difference to your mental health.
Play sports or exercise
Listen to music
Watch a show or movie
Talk to someone you trust
Read books
Journal
Explore hobbies, new and old
Try breathing exercises
Using alcohol, drugs or vaping as a teen can mess with how your brain grows and can affect your mental health. Things like trouble at school, feeling alone without close friends, dealing with tough stuff like family problems or trauma, or having mental health programs can make it most likely to take risks or even get addicted to drugs.
Every day you face decisions and pressures. Know the facts about the dangers of drinking, vaping, or using other drugs. It's important to know that some choices have bigger consequences than others.
"Short-term fun isn't worth long-term problems"
"Say no once, and it gets easier"
"Your friends won't care as much as you think if you say no"
"It's hard to feel different, but it's better for you"
Life can be full of stress and everyday pressures – some are good, and some can feel really bad. Watch out for negative influences like peer pressure, school pressure, or social media.
You can help change things by being a positive influence. It starts with you.
Alcohol, vaping, and drugs can harm your body and mind. They might seem like they help for a moment, but the harmful effects last much longer. These substances can even make anxiety or depression worse. It’s important to choose healthy ways to deal with stress.
Physical activity like taking walks, playing sports, stretching, or dance
Listen to music
Read
Journal
Make art
Talk to someone you trust
Breathing exercises (like box breathing)
Watch TV or movies
Spend time with family or friends
Friends can influence your choices in good or bad ways. It's hard to be the only one saying "no," but you can do it. Remember, most Maine teens are saying "no" too, so you're not alone. Know your feelings and what matters to you. Being confident in yourself helps you make the healthy choice about alcohol and drugs - stay strong and walk away.
Find people who keep you motivated
Be a positive voice for others who need it
Find a mentor or role model
Spend time with people who help you make healthy choices
Alcohol, vaping, cannabis, and other drugs can stand in the way of your goals. It’s important to figure out your goals, make plans, and take the steps to reach them. Have the confidence to say no to peer pressure and make the best decisions for you.
Keep it anonymous. Just share your words.
Short term memory loss
Impulse control issues
Trouble sleeping
Acid reflux
Anxiety and depression
Shortness of breath
More anxiety, stress, or depression
Trouble sleeping
Acne and skin issues
Loss of taste buds
Short term memory loss
Lower math and reading scores
Anxiety, depression, and paranoia
Low motivation
Low attention span