Safe Yakima Valley Launches New “Talk. They Hear You.” Campaign

Safe Yakima Valley has launched its latest “Talk. They Hear You.” media campaign, running from February to April The initiative aims to empower parents and caregivers to discuss the risks of substance use with youth through billboards, radio PSAs, social media, and more.

A SPECIAL MONTH TO WARN ABOUT STRONG MARIJUANA

February marks Marijuana Prevention Month. Safe Yakima Valley officials say while 90% of Yakima County youth do not use marijuana, officials stress the importance of understanding today’s marijuana potency compared to past generations. They say natural THC levels range from 0.5% to 6%, but products sold in dispensaries can reach up to 90%, with an average of 20%.

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MANY IMPACTS ON YOUNG BODIES AND MINDS

Safe Yakima Valley officials say marijuana’s impact on kids under 18-years-old includes memory loss, anxiety, depression, impaired brain development, and serious mental health issues like psychosis and schizophrenia. They maintain long-term use can lead to Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, causing severe nausea and vomiting, which only stops when a person stops using marijuana.

START TALKING TODAY

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to start conversations early—around age 8—about the dangers of substances.
Five key goals include showing disapproval of underage drinking, caring about children's health, providing reliable information, paying attention to risky behaviors, and helping children develop refusal strategies.

THERE'S GOOD REASON TO TALK TO KIDS

Why “Talk. They Hear You”? Research suggests that THE most important factor in healthy child development is a strong, open relationship with a parent. It is important to start talking to your children about the risks of alcohol and other substances before they are exposed to them—as early as 8 years old.