When kids enter high school they have more freedom coupled with increased academic demands and social stress. This can lead to an increased risk of unhealthy behaviors. Plus, they often have the false perception that “everyone is doing it” – particularly around substance use. However, studies show that when youth have regular conversations about substance use with a trusted parent, caregiver, coach, or other adults they are less likely to drink alcohol and use drugs compared to other students. In fact, these conversations are one of the most effective prevention methods against the use of alcohol and other substances.
Category: Parent Tips
The “F” Word Everyone Is Talking About
By Janet Dosseva, MPH, PS-C A few years ago, our coalition was doing outreach and educating folks to keep their prescription medications up and away to reduce the risk of medications, particularly opioids, from being diverted into the community. However, nowadays, raising awareness to prevent opioid misuse has shifted. The US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) […]
The Kids Are Not Alright
By Janet Dosseva, MPH, PS-C When we start a new year, we often take “inventory” – looking to make improvements like changing our habits, improving our health, bettering our mindset, etc. One thing we should ALL do is focus on improving our interactions with young people in our communities. Data from the Maine Integrated Youth […]
Supporting Mental Health for Youth
While middle school years and high school years can be stressful, the bottom line is that more of our kids reported signs of mental health issues: too many feel that don’t feel they matter and have even contemplated suicide.
Join Us! Free Teen Prevention Series for Westbrook Parents & Caregivers
Westbrook parents and caregivers are invited to join us for this free four-part series designed to provide parents with information to support their teen. We will hold each virtual meeting from 6:30-8pm, weekly on Wednesday evenings on March 10, 17, 24 and 31. Topics include substance use prevention and mental health. This series is presented […]
CHOOSE HEALTHY HABITS IN CHALLENGING TIMES
While there is light at the end of the tunnel, there is no doubt that we are currently facing some of the biggest challenges in recent history. Remote work and learning have lead to an increased feeling of isolation for many teens and adults; uncertainty about work, post-high school plans, child care, and our health […]
The Prevention Puzzle
There are a number of ways parents and caregivers can help their child make healthy choices and stay substance-free. Being informed about the data is one piece of the prevention puzzle. Survey data of Westbrook parents compared with Westbrook youth responses compiled in the Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey (MIYHS) help us understand the differences […]
