75%
of idahoans don’t use drugs
If you don’t use illicit drugs you are in the large majority. Three quarters of people haven’t used any illicit drugs in the past year. The life experiences we have give us plenty to experience.
Idaho’s BestMoments AreDrug-Free
The story of why not to do drugs is already being told across Idaho. Our job is just to bring attention to it.
So if we catch you posting about bagging the peak at Mt. Borah, or even just sharing your recipe for huckleberry jam—anything that sets life in Idaho apart from life anywhere else on the planet—we might just call it what we see it: an anti-drug ad. Because someone’s got to remind us all that we’ve got a good thing going, and we’d better steer clear of anything that would alter this marvelous reality. We’d better keep Idaho special.
Did you know?
25%
of idahoans use drugs
However, one in four people have used an illicit drug in the past year. This is too high. Drug use greatly limits the amount of life experiences one can have in Idaho.
$44
billion
Amount the National Drug Control budget requested to combat and manage US illicit drugs in 2024.
3.5X
more likely to report lower grades
Academically, grades are affected. Students who use marijuana are 3.5 times more likely to report lower GPAs.
30%
Lower crime
Drugs correlate with crime and Idaho has nearly ⅓ less violent crime per 100,000 residents than our neighboring Pacific Northwest states. Keeping Idaho safe is important to all of us.
Resources
If you think someone you know is struggling with drug use, but aren’t sure, one of the most relevant and common warning signs is withdrawing from friends, family and social activities.
FAQs
What do drugs actually do to your brain and body?
Illicit drugs can change how the brain and body function. Depending on the drug, effects can include changes in judgment, memory, mood, coordination, heart rate and breathing. Repeated use can also lead to addiction or substance use disorder. Some drugs can damage organs or worsen mental health, and illicit drugs can carry the additional danger of unknown ingredients or potency. CDC's current youth campaign puts this quite plainly: drugs can affect both physical and mental health, and the wrong dose or combination can be deadly.
Source: CDC, Facts About Substances
CDC: Facts About Substances
Also useful: DEA's 2024 Drugs of Abuse guide covers the effects on the body and mind, overdose potential and other consequences drug-by-drug.
DEA: Drugs of Abuse 2024
How can I tell if someone I care about is using drugs or needs help?
There isn't one sign that proves someone is using drugs. Look instead for meaningful changes in their usual behavior or ability to function: trouble at school or work, changes in sleep or eating, difficulty concentrating, increasing focus on obtaining or using drugs, neglecting responsibilities or self-care, and problems in relationships.
One particularly relevant warning sign is withdrawing from friends, family and social activities. SAMHSA explicitly lists avoiding friends and family/social activities among signs that someone may need help.
Source: SAMHSA, Signs You Need to Seek Help
SAMHSA: Signs You Need to Seek Help
How do I talk to my child, friend or loved one about drugs?
Start the conversation early and make it a conversation rather than a lecture. Be direct about the risks, but listen as well. Ask what the person has heard about drugs, correct misinformation, explain why you care, and make it clear they can come to you without fear of an immediate judgment or confrontation.
For parents, SAMHSA recommends many short conversations rather than trying to cover everything in one large "drug talk." It also emphasizes communicating clear expectations while showing that your concern comes from caring about the child's health, safety and future.
Source: SAMHSA, Talk. They Hear You.
SAMHSA: Parent and Caregiver Resources
What should I do if I—or someone I know—has a drug problem?
Help is available, and substance use disorders are treatable. If drug use is interfering with health, relationships, school, work or everyday responsibilities, consider talking with a healthcare professional or substance-use treatment provider. Family members and friends can also seek guidance about how to help someone they care about.
SAMHSA provides treatment information and a national treatment locator. For an immediate mental-health or substance-use crisis, call or text 988.
Source: SAMHSA
SAMHSA: Find Support