Substance abuse drops amongst Queens students

Students in Queens public high schools use drugs and alcohol less than students in the other four boroughs, according to results from a survey released recently by the City’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
Thirty-one percent of Queens public high school students reported drinking alcohol within the past month in 2005 when the survey was conducted compared to 35 percent citywide.
The new numbers compare favorably from results from a 2001 survey, which said 41 percent of students citywide had consumed alcohol within the past month.
“It is great news that fewer public high school students today drink or use drugs,” said City Schools Chancellor Joe Klein. “Students, parents, and families should know that their schools are a safe and appropriate place to ask questions about drugs and alcohol, and to get information, resources and support for themselves or loved ones who may need assistance.”
However, although the numbers have declined somewhat in the past few years, not all Queens’ parents are happy with the latest survey.
“They are not down far enough as far I’m concerned,” said Andrew Baumann, President of Community Education Council (CEC) 27, which covers Richmond Hill, Ozone Park and the Rockaways.
Baumann, who used to work as a drug and alcohol counselor and has two sons who will enter high school next year, said the DOE needs to do more.
“In terms of prevention or education, whatever the DOE [is offering] is not enough.”
Meanwhile, Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Friedman said that if parents believe their children are using drugs, there are programs within the schools that are available to help them.
“Parents should set clear rules against drinking, smoking and using drugs, and talk honestly to their children about the dangers of substance use,” he said. “If parents suspect their child is drinking or using drugs, there are counseling resources available through doctors and schools to help address the problem.”
In addition, the report also provided some positive news about city youth compared to the national average. The survey results found that city youths are half as likely to binge drink, (14 percent compared to 28 percent nationally), and 28 percent of city youths are likely to use marijuana compared to a 38 percent national average.