Substance Use & Abuse

Where the Road Divides.

The American Psychiatric Association describes addiction as, “A complex condition, and a chronic brain disease that is manifested by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequence”. There are many reasons why children & adults experiment with drugs and alcohol such as peer pressure, self esteem issues, as a right of passage in American culture, self-medication of mental health disorders and a need to deal with the pressures of their lives.  Supporting our youth to understand how substances impact their physical, emotional and mental development is critical as our communities deal with increasing overdoses, fatal car accidents, sexual promiscuity and a range of destructive behaviors.

This workshop will detail types of substances, symptoms of use, impact on development, current data and treatment options and practical supports & tools for those adults caring for young people who are in danger of substance use or are currently using alcohol and drugs.