Combating substance use in schools

In recent years there have been significant increases in alcohol, drug and substance use across the country. This substance use has significantly impacted K-12 school-age students as well as those pursuing post-secondary education.

Warning signs that may indicate that a student is impacted by opioids, alcohol and other substance use include:

Elementary students

  • Poor mental/motor development

  • Memory and perception problems

  • Speech and language problems

  • Developmental delays

  • Reduced decision-making abilities

  • Impaired self-regulation

  • Poor response to stressful situations

  • Impaired school performance

Middle school students

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Secretive behaviors

  • Poor hygiene/Changes in physical appearance

  • Disruptive behavior

  • Rapid changes in mood

  • Decline in academic performance or attendance

High school students

  • Mood and personality changes

  • Depression

  • Hyperactivity

  • Health and hygiene issues

  • Changes in relationships with friends and family

  • Problems with police

  • Unhealthy peer/dating relationships

  • Disengagement from school

  • Poor attendance or dropping out

Strategies to support students who may be impacted by opioids, alcohol and other substance use include:

  • Find out what kinds of resources are available in your school or district so you know where to turn to get help for a student

  • Talk with school counselors, nurses and administrators to find out how best to support students for whom you are concerned

  • Learn to recognize the signs of opioid, alcohol and substance use so you can refer students appropriately

  • Integrate basic alcohol and drug prevention skill-building into everyday teaching so student can learn to:

    • Make good decisions

    • Solve problems

    • Become more assertive and practice learning refusal skills

    • Be more self-aware

    • Build positive relationships

  • Help students learn coping and stress management skills such as:

    • Self-control

    • Standing up to peer pressure

    • Time management

    • Dealing with difficult situations like conflict or loss

    • Setting goals

  • Talk with students about opioid, alcohol and substance use.

 

Source: Department of Education: blog.ed.gov

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