On this page you will find:
What Helps Kids Stay Safe—and What Puts Them at Risk
Some things in life can make people more likely to use drugs, and some things can help protect them. These are called risk and protective factors. Knowing what these are can help our community stop drug problems before they start.
Low risk perceptions
Perceptions are what people think or believe about something. If someone thinks a drug isn’t dangerous, they might be more likely to try it. That’s called having a low risk perception.
Perceived disapproval of substances from friends
When friends say they don’t like drugs, it helps stop peer pressure. Kids are less likely to try drugs if their friends don’t approve. It’s also really important for parents to show they don’t approve of drug use.
Accessibility
Drugs and other substances can be easy for kids to get. A lot of times, they get them from friends or even family members.
Zero adverse childhood experiences
When kids go through hard times—like being hurt, ignored, or not feeling safe at home—it can cause stress and make life harder. These tough experiences can lead to problems later, like using drugs. Helping families be safe, loving, and supportive can protect kids and keep them healthy.
Mental health issues
More kids are dealing with mental health problems like stress, sadness, or anxiety. Some may use drugs to try to feel better or because they’re afraid to ask for help. Talking openly and supporting mental health can help kids stay safe and healthy.
Felt cared about by parents and the community
In small towns, it’s important for kids to feel close to their parents and the people around them. Feeling connected helps kids stay away from drugs and gives them support when life gets tough. Working together makes the whole community stronger.
Substances
Some drugs are used a lot by kids and teens, and they can be very risky. Using them young can lead to problems later in life. It’s important to know what these drugs are and how to help kids stay away from them.
Alcohol
Alcohol is the drug kids use most. It slows down the brain and can make it hard to move or stay balanced. Drinking a lot can hurt the liver, cause cancer, and lead to heart problems. It’s important to know the risks and help kids avoid it.
Cannabis
Cannabis (also called marijuana) is a drug that’s used a lot, especially since it became legal in Minnesota in 2023. It has something called THC that affects the brain. Today’s cannabis is stronger than it used to be. It can cause side effects like feeling scared, anxious, very hungry, sick, or confused. People can smoke it, vape it, or eat it in foods. CBD is another part of the plant that doesn’t make you feel high. Medical cannabis is different—it’s given by a doctor and has controlled amounts of THC and CBD. Talk to your doctor if you have questions.
Vaping/E-cigarettes
Vapes (also called e-cigarettes) make a cloud that has nicotine, THC, and other harmful stuff. That cloud can have poisons like heavy metals. Vapes come in many shapes and can hurt your lungs and make mental health worse. Throwing away vapes also harms the environment.
Opioids
Opioids are strong drugs that help with pain. They work by changing how your brain feels rewards. Over time, people may need more to feel good. Fentanyl is a man-made opioid that’s very powerful. It’s often mixed into other drugs without people knowing. Just a tiny bit can cause an overdose. Signs of overdose include not waking up, cold or sweaty skin, and trouble breathing.
