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Substance Use Prevention Resources
for Parents & Guardians
When it comes to substance use, and substance use prevention it can be a struggle to find the right resource for you. Breakwater’s goal is to connect you to relevant resources in an easy-to-navigate way. Each category below links to a set of resources specific to that group. Not finding a resource that fits your needs, or know of a resource that we don’t have listed? Let us know by emailing info@breakwaterwi.org.
Cannabis Resources
1. SAMSHA: Preventing Marijuana Use Among Youth The goal of this guide is to review the literature on prevention of marijuana use among youth, distill the research into recommendations for practice, and provide examples of the ways these recommendations can be implemented.
2. The Cannabis Question I Full Episode I PBS As state-legalized cannabis spreads, NOVA explores its little-known risks and benefits. NOVA investigates the story of cannabis from the criminalization that has disproportionately harmed communities of color to the latest medical understanding of the plant. What risks does cannabis pose to the developing brain? How much do we know about its potential medical benefits? As cannabis becomes socially accepted, scientists are exploring its long-term health consequences.
DHS Small Talks Campaign
The Wisconsin DHS Small Talks campaign is encouraging parents and guardians to have small talks with their kids from an early age. Talking to your kids about alcohol and other drugs, starting around age 8, can help prevent underage drinking and other youth substance use. Start small by asking a question after a news or while watching a movie. Maybe start a conversation while you’re playing video games or on a walk. Take advantage of the teachable moments that present themselves to us in everyday life. If your child asks a question or makes a comment about someone they know drinking alcohol, lean into it and learn more about what they’re thinking and feeling.
SAMSHA's Talk, They Hear You Campaign
SAMSHA, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration wants us to know that when we talk, our kids listen. (even if it doesn’t always feel like it). This campaign includes several PSAs, conversation starters, and a whole host of parent resources including conversation goals and tips for answering your child’s tough questions.
The Breakwater Podcast
Do you have a friend or family member who is struggling with substance use or addiction? Are you looking for support, to connect with others who have a similar experience, or just looking to learn more about substance use and addiction? We’ve put together this resource page for you!
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
Educators and mentors play a huge role in the lives of youth throughout our community. We’ve put this page together to support your work, and provide you with resources that can be used in your classrooms, groups, and for special projects.