This year the SAMHSA-sponsored initiative strives to:
- Get communities involved with implementing prevention strategies and showcasing effectiveness of evidence-based prevention programs
- Foster partnerships and collaborations with federal agencies and national organizations dedicated to improving public health
- Promote and disseminate quality substance use prevention and mental health resources
The National Center on Substance Abuse and Child Welfare (NCSACW) urges case workers, court professionals, and others to learn more about the array of services and resources available for those living with—or at risk of—substance use disorder (SUD) and mental health issues. NCSACW provides technical assistance and other materials to help understand and prevent SUDs. Some of our resources focusing on youth:
- Working with Adolescents: Practice Tips and Resource Guide offers tips for child welfare workers, treatment providers, and other professionals. Topics include defining adolescence, understanding development, and planning engagement strategies. Resources and programs fall along the SUD continuum of prevention, intervention and treatment, and recovery supports.
- Meeting the Moment: How Child Welfare and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Professionals Can Address the Needs of Adolescents at Risk of Suicide and Mental Health Concerns considers the alarming number of adolescents at risk for substance use, suicide, trauma, and mental health concerns. Topics include identifying those most vulnerable; designing prevention-based interventions; and creating key strategies to promote resilience, recovery, and positive development for young people involved in child welfare.