Many of them report that they smoke to manage stress and control their weight. Underage drinking and the combined use of alcohol, tobacco and cannabis increased dramatically between 1991 and 1998 in several provinces. A comprehensive plan to invest in Canada's young people needs to pay attention to how gender, culture and membership in various population groups affect the opportunities available to young people. Young people themselves must be involved in identifying both problems and solutions, and in providing input to policy and program decisions related to their well-being. Young people who are ready for intimate relationships respect each other and share roles between the sexes.
Family members are young people's most important role models.
Older peers and adult leaders in schools, the community, media and sport and recreation programs can also help young people learn to form and maintain relationships. At the same time, school and community programs are needed to help young men and women prepare for parenting. Helping young people make a successful transition from school to meaningful employment. Mentoring, cooperative education, apprenticeship programs and school curricula that teach generic work-related skills can also help young people make a smoother transition from school to work. Helping young people prepare to participate in community life.