Emerging Issues
Nicotine Vaping
Despite being illegal, tobacco companies are still selling disposable vapes with sweet flavors. They can expose youth to toxic chemicals and high levels of nicotine.
Nicotine Pouches
These small pouches contain nicotine powder and are sometimes referred to as “ZYNs” or “lip pillows.” They are placed between the gum and the upper lip (“upper decky”) or lower lip (“lower decky”).
Cannabis
Cannabis concentrates and edible cannabis products can deliver high levels of THC and impact brain development.
Fake Pills and Fentanyl
Drug dealers are selling street drugs and fake pills laced with illicit fentanyl, causing poisoning deaths. In many cases, youth buy these fake pills through social media platforms.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also called “NOS” or “laughing gas,” is a colorless, odorless gas commonly used for pain relief during dental procedures and pressurizing whipped cream dispensers. When misused, it is inhaled through balloons or directly from gas canisters, which causes a dizzy, relaxed feeling.
Additional Resources
Family Digital Toolkit
Truth Initiative
Youth are growing up in a digital world filled with social media and online content. This toolkit is designed to build parents’ and caregivers’ digital literacy skills to reduce the influence of negative social media content and prevent youth from using drugs and alcohol.