Parents and school officials at Helix Charter High gathered recently on campus to discuss drug, alcohol and tobacco use among students and how those substances affect the minds and bodies of adolescents.

The community roundtable was a candid conversation open to parents, students and staff members to discuss substance misuse and mental health and their concerns, questions, and perspectives.

“Helix was thrilled to partner with community organizations that help keep our families informed and connected,” Community Outreach Specialist Lauren Knuth said. “We are excited to host regularly scheduled events like this next school year.”

The goal was to get a holistic understanding of the multiple perspectives, challenges and experiences influencing parental and youth education and access to care, focusing on reducing stigma. The event provided supported individuals and their families in normalizing the conversation around alcohol and other drug misuse, abuse and mental health.

Helix Charter High social worker Melody Soto told attendees that creating a safe space for students to discuss drugs, legal and illegal substances, and other serious topics is essential. She is often met with nervous laughter when broaching such issues, indicating that students may be uncomfortable having the discussion with an adult.

The dangers of fentanyl were discussed at the event, including a warning that even the smallest amount of it can be deadly. Fentanyl-laced pills can be made to look like legitimate prescription medication like Adderall, and also be put in illegal street and party drugs.

Parents were coached on starting conversations, what they might hear, and what they would say to their youth regarding substances and mental health.

Empathy is needed to discuss using and misusing substances with their teen openly. It’s okay to be disappointed and, at the same time, understand. Allowing your student to ask questions and hear their perceptions is the beginning of open, honest communication that can lead to a closer relationship between a parent and child. Developing trust and security is essential so teens will rely on parents for reliable information and a mature perspective and build confidence to make educated, responsible, and safe decisions when interacting in spaces where substances are present.

More information about IPS East County can be found on social media platforms including Facebook, Gorjeo, the East County Youth Coalition Instagram, on the website IPSEast.org or by email at [email protected].

Additional county resources to support youth and families related to SUD and mental health prevention can be found on the It’s Up to Us website. The access & Crisis line is available year-round, 24/7 at (888) 724-7240.

Editor’s note: Copy provided by Paul Levikow. Photo courtesy of IPS.