Representatives from both the Moose Jaw Police Service and the Saskatchewan Health Authority's Mental Health and Addictions Services conducted a drug-trend information session at Central Collegiate Tuesday night.

'Get the Facts: Current Drug Trends' brought out approximately 30 parents and students to the annual presentation about teen substance use in Moose Jaw.

Constable Kyle Cunningham is a School Resource Officer with Community and Strategic Services. He explained why they do this type of presentation every year.

"I think it's important to get that message home to parents so that they're able to be better educated and to better support their young people."

Drug trends in our city include cocaine, crystal meth, crack, over-the-counter and prescription medications, fentanyl, and ecstasy according to Cst. Cunningham. He said they have seen a slight rise in marijuana use since it became legal last fall. Cough syrup also made it onto the list of substances used by teens in Moose Jaw.

"I came here to learn about the dangers of drugs. I had a little bit of knowledge, but there was much more that I learned here today than what I've known before," said a Grade 8 student in attendance.

The presentation also included information on the signs of drug use as well as some of the myths about drug use. Ease of access to drugs in the community and what type of community support is available were also part of the evening's discussion.

L-R: Constable Kyle Cunningham with the SHA's Mental Health and Addictions Services representatives Kerri Diehl and Carlie Pagens.