As marijuana becomes more widely available and socially accepted, many teens and families assume it is harmless. However, a growing body of research suggests that marijuana use during adolescence may be linked to negative outcomes in both school performance and mental health. A large review of 63 studies involving nearly 440,000 young people found that…
When someone is experiencing an overdose, every second matters. Yet many people hesitate to call 911 because they are worried about getting themselves or someone else into legal trouble. Maryland’s Good Samaritan Law was created to address this concern and encourage people to seek emergency help without delay. The Maryland Department of Health recently released…
A new synthetic opioid called cychlorphine is drawing attention from public health officials, medical examiners, and law enforcement agencies across the United States. While many families have heard of fentanyl, cychlorphine is part of a newer group of synthetic opioids that experts say may be even more potent and difficult to detect. Reports indicate that…
The 2025-26 HoCo Student Film Festival was held on May 1, 2026 from 7:00-8:30 pm at the Miller Library Congratulations to this year’s talented Film Fest winners! Play the winning film in the HC DrugFree Public Service Announcement category, One Pill Can Kill, created by Srivatsa Pusuluri, Roshan Gopi, Advaith Nair, and Guru Velivelli Counterfeit…
HC DrugFree is excited to announce the successful completion of our 2026 Spring Life Skills classes! Over the past several weeks, middle and high school students came together online to learn, practice, and build the tools they need to make safe, healthy decisions throughout the school year. The Life Skills sessions focused on practical skills…
On Saturday, April 25, 2026, HC DrugFree’s Medication Collection site gathered 1,215.5 lbs of unwanted and expired medications (43 bins) for proper disposal, contributing to an impressive national total of 642,410.4 lbs (321 tons) on the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA’s) National Drug Take Back Day. HC DrugFree also distributed 103 medication lock boxes to help families store medications securely and prevent misuse. Thank you to everyone…
As families navigate screen time, one of the most effective strategies is not just limiting devices, but helping youth stay engaged in meaningful, real-world activities. In Howard County, there are more options than many families realize, including creative, service-based, and hands-on opportunities that can help kids build confidence, connection, and routine. The Howard County Recreation…
A growing trend on social media is promoting peptide injections as a shortcut to muscle growth, anti-aging, weight loss, and faster injury recovery. While these products may sound appealing, many of the peptides being advertised and sold online are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and health experts are raising concerns…
Each spring, clocks move forward for the start of daylight saving time. While many people look forward to longer evenings and more daylight, the time change can disrupt sleep patterns and daily routines. Experts say these changes can affect mood, stress levels, and even vulnerability to substance use. Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz…
Grandparents often do more than share stories and traditions—they can help children develop emotional resilience and wellbeing. Research from Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child emphasizes that dependable, nurturing relationships with adults help children handle stress and regulate emotions. Children with stable, caring adults in their lives develop stronger social skills, better emotional control, and…
