KASPER, the Kentucky All Schedule Prescription Electronic Reporting System, tracks controlled substance prescriptions dispensed within the state. KASPER Trend Report data (2020 first quarter) indicates that 460,651 doses of controlled substances were dispensed in Clinton County. Thankfully, the number of doses dispensed has continued to decrease consistently for a number of years as the community has realized the negative impact that excessive quantities of controlled substances has on families. 

To help youth understand the impact of substance abuse, the Clinton County Cooperative Extension Service implemented Truth & Consequences: The Choice is Yours, a scenario based role-play activity designed to help students learn more about the physical, legal, financial, and emotional consequences of substance abuse, for 231 sophomore and junior high school students. 55 community partners and adult volunteers participated in the event as well. Community partner evaluation data indicates that 57% strongly agreed that substance abuse by youth is a problem in the community; 64% indicated that it is easy for youth to get drugs in the community; and 75% agreed or strongly agreed that one reason why alcohol and drug use occurs in our community is that there are not enough activities for youth. 

Student evaluation results revealed the following: 55% of students indicated that it was slightly or not wrong at all for someone their age to participate in one or two drinks of an alcoholic beverage; 78% also indicated that there was slight or no risk in people harming themselves physically or in other ways if they participate in one or two drinks of an alcoholic beverage; and 39% indicated slight or no risk in harm associated with marijuana use.  

Students also shared the following evaluation comments: “It was a good simulation on what it would be like to experience substance abuse in real life.”; "I learned not to drink or buy alcohol while underage or there will be consequences.  Being put in the back of a cop car isn't fun and being under the influence can and will cause you to do things that you normally wouldn't do."; "I've learned that your mistakes now could affect your future.”; and “If anything, being a part of this program has taught me the value of avoiding drugs. Obviously, nothing good can come from substances that do nothing but impair someone’s thoughts.”

The event continues to make an impact on students each year by providing them with a first-hand look at the realities and consequences of getting involved with substance abuse.