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Delta-8 THC is a synthetic compound made from hemp (CBD) that’s being sold in gas stations, vape shops, and convenience stores—often disguised as candies, vapes, or drinks marketed toward youth and young adults. The effects are similar to Delta-9 THC (marijuana), but Delta-8 is not well-regulated.
Poison control centers have reported a sharp increase in calls for pediatric exposure, with more than half of these cases involving patients under 20. While these cases rarely result in death, many require hospitalization.
What this means for families: These products may look harmless, but can be highly dangerous. They are widely available and easy for teens and younger children to access. Parents and caregivers should stay alert, ask questions, and talk openly with their children about the risks. At Hope Above Fear, we believe awareness saves lives. If you have questions or need help starting a conversation with your teen, we’re here to support you.
The following resources provide trusted, research-based information to help families, educators, and community members understand the scope of today’s substance use crisis.

Analysis provided by Escambia County Medical Examiner’s Office and Florida Health Department Substance Use Dashboard. **2023 data is provisional. Data provided is as of July 2024.


Open, honest conversations are one of the strongest protective factors.
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