In a 1995 survey of students at a large Omaha high school, twenty-two percent of the students reported having used marijuana, cocaine, crack, heroin or other narcotics. Law enforcement officials are reporting an alarming increase in the use of methamphetamine and related arrest in the metropolitan Omaha area. OCP in partnership with area school districts, developed a parent guide for talking to kids about marijuana and methamphetamine. Called T.A.L.K. M2, Talk and Listen to Kids About Methamphetamine and Marijuana , it utilized information from PDFA and other knowledgeable sources to provide parents with information and tips for communication with their children. OCP also maintains a guide to substance abuse treatment services for the metropolitan Omaha area.
Education is key in decreasing the demand for drugs.
National studies have clearly shown the media is the primary source, and the most efficient distribution system, for delivering information about drug abuse to the public. Eighty-three percent of students recalled PDFA messages. Three quarters of the youth said the messages caused them to stop or decrease drug use, or convinced them never to start. Through the alliance with PDFA, OCP will effectively communicate the dangers of drug use and thus support the community's efforts to encourage healthy, drug-free lifestyles.