The Geary County Prevention Partnership continues to work to combat risk areas faced by teens in the county.

They have provided information from a Communities that Care survey which showed some positive changes in trends.

The survey is given annually to students in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12, and tracks teen substance use and behaviors.

Of the students surveyed in Geary County:

–30-day alcohol use among youth has decreased overall within the last five years.

–Two week binge drinking ( more than five alcoholic drinks in a row ) has decreased from 2012, but remains level overall within the last five years.

–Alcohol remains the top substance abused by youth for 30-day use. It is followed by marijuana, cigarettes, prescription medications and inhalants.

–The perception that youth will be harmed by drug use is decreasing.

–And youth reported closer bonds with parents and having opportunities to do fun activities with their families.