Delco DA Says Results Of Study On Middle And High School Students Concern Him
DREXEL HILL, Pa. (CBS) -- A meeting was held in Delaware County this morning to discuss a survey of Pennsylvania middle school and high school students.
Delaware County District Attorney Jack Whelan says the findings from the Pennsylvania Youth Survey concern him -- not only as DA -- but also as a parent of a high schooler.
One of those statistics, 44 percent of children in grades 6 through 12 report being sad or depressed.
"That's very concerning because I know that depression, that sadness can lead to alcohol abuse, can lead to drug abuse can lead to them hurting themselves, can lead ultimately to death by suicide and that's every parent's worst nightmare."
Whelan says the study finds more high school students are aware of the dangers of drinking and driving, but aren't as concerned of "drugged driving," driving under the influence of drugs like marijuana.
Another alarming statistic, he says, 45 percent say they've taken drugs from a family member's prescription. A reminder, Whelan says, for parents and grandparents to get rid of old prescription drugs, especially opioids and narcotics.
