Suffolk Stop Addiction

We strongly encourage schools to provide comprehensive prevention programs which encompass grades K-12. The evidence-based curricula delivered are specifically designed to build on knowledge gained from previous years as well as consistently introduce new, more complex concepts and ideas.

Whether in a classroom or small group setting, research has shown that a comprehensive prevention program implemented across the grade spectrum promotes developmentally appropriate, solution-focused, healthy alternatives to risky behavior by teaching:

• Knowledge of the short and long term consequences of substance use and abuse
• Cognitive and behavioral competencies
• Greater self-esteem and self-confidence
• Skills to resist internal and external pressure to smoke, drink, and use drugs

In an effort to reduce and prevent a variety of health risk behaviors and increase overall student success, these skills should be taught over time in a well-structured, continuous format.

Prevention agencies and curriculum developers appreciate the limited amount of classroom time teachers have to cover mandated materials, while still adhering to New York State’s Common Core and Health Standards, and Performance Indicators.

Most of the evidence-based curricula offered by local prevention agencies have shown correlations to these standards. Documents detailing the breakdown of specific academic alignment for each evidence-based curricula can be found on individual program websites, as well as discussed with your local Prevention Provider.

A note about one-shot presentations: One-time presentations can indeed supplement, but should NOT be seen as a substitute for a comprehensive K-12 prevention plan for your students!

Substance use is a public health concern, one requiring an approach that goes beyond primary prevention, individual intervention, or treatment. A collaborative effort is needed by all community members to support activities implemented in schools. A great way community members can support prevention efforts put forth by schools is by getting involved in their local community coalition.

Community coalition work utilizes evidence-based approaches such as the Strategic Prevention Framework and environmental strategies to address substance use and abuse from the community perspective.

Coalitions are a great way to integrate and align resources in the community and engage multiple sectors in prevention efforts including schools, law enforcement, local/county government, youth agencies, parents, youth, businesses, and more.

This approach maximizes the power of individuals, mobilizes local talent, and allows problem identification, data collection and collaborative solutions to be citizen driven. This builds capacity, making our communities safer and healthier while providing effective prevention services.

Examples of coalition strategies include:

• Activities which assess the community’s needs and resources
• Activities which increase overall knowledge of substance use and abuse
• Informative trainings for professionals and community members
• Campaigns to address underage drinking
• Advocacy and policy work to change or improve laws and regulations

For local coalition development support, and a complete listing of active coalitions, services, and trainings in Suffolk County visit: https://www.liprc.org/ or email info@liprc.org

For general information about coalitions, visit Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America: www.CADCA.org

Don’t have a coalition in your community? START ONE!

At some point before your child reaches adulthood, they may feel pressured to use alcohol and other drugs. It will not be a stranger in a trench coat offering it to them; most likely they will be lured by a friend, neighbor, or older sibling. The question is not if this person will come into your child's life, but when. How will your child navigate those difficult situations? That depends in a large part on what you do now. Your child is probably at that stage where they are old enough to understand serious subjects and young enough to accept parental guidance. Discussing unhealthy behaviors such as alcohol and other drug use right now is critical, and utilizing the steps described below will give your child the tools needed to say NO loud and clear!

Wondering how to start the conversation with your kids about alcohol and drugs? “LET’S B REAL”

• L – Let’s be honest. Talk to your kids about any family history of addiction and explain the risks involved if they choose to use alcohol or other drugs
• E – Encourage your child to share their thoughts and perceptions. Children will learn and hear things about alcohol and drugs, so it’s important for you to know what they know and how they feel about it.
• T – Teachable moments and real world examples. Take advantage of moments presented to start a conversation about alcohol and drug use: recent events in the news; a character on a television shoe; a situation with family, friends, etc.
• S – Stay Strong and be consistent. Continue to reinforce previously established riles and consequences about the use of alcohol or other drugs.
• B – Be mindful of their transitions (physical and emotional). Physical and emotional changes are a challenge for young people, and can lead to confusion, unhealthy decision making, and change in attitude.
• R – Realistic. Talk to your child about all the dangers associated with alcohol and other drugs.
• E – Educate yourself. Knowledge is power! The more you know about alcohol and other drugs, the easier it will be for you to help guide your child in the right direction.
• A – Assign the time to talk. Make the time to talk to your child about alcohol and other drugs: during car rides, at the dinner table, at family outings, etc.
• L – Listen to your child! Taking an interest in what your child has to day will make it easier to understand their perspective, and can also help pick up on signs that something may be going on in their life.

Partners in Prevention has created a full list of trusted, local prevention providers. Pages 5 and 6 of the Let’s Talk Prevention guide lists the prevention providers in your area who can deliver comprehensive evidence-based curricula and supplemental single presentations.

Please visit the National Registry of Evidence-Based Programs and Practices (NREPP) for more information about the proven prevention programs available for implementation for your youth: https://www.samhsa.gov/resource-search/ebp