Teens and Alcohol Don’t Mix: Hear More from Fox61

Fox 61 News, May 25, 2016

"The spring celebration season is in full force with graduations, weddings and outside barbecues, however, the Governor’s Prevention Partnerships reminds all CT parents that teens and alcohol don’t mix! In fact, we're making it our mission to educate families and teens about underage drinking laws and health risks. Check out this short FOX61 interview to learn more!"

View additional resources to speak with youth about the dangers of underage drinking.

Positive School Climate

The Governor’s Prevention Partnership Positive School Climate Initiative is grounded in the understanding of what each individual child needs to be a successful learner. A positive learning environment, free from the threats of violence, bullying, alcohol or drug abuse, is proven to help a young person succeed against these odds. Today, the state requires that every school adopt a policy on bullying and designate an on-site staff person to the issue. Our job is to help.

View our 7 - Step Positive School Climate resource which highlights the need for staff awareness and buy-in, student empowerment and leadership skills, adult modeling, and relationship building. All are examples of necessary components of school climate which are key to reducing dropout rates and risky behaviors, and fostering youth development and academic achievement.

Upcoming Trainings:
Join us for our Bullying 101 webinar on June 28th from 12:00pm-1:00pm

Youth Bullying in Connecticut

Bullying is one of the most widespread and under reported problems within our schools and communities. Once dismissed as “kids being kids,” bullying is no longer viewed as harmless behavior that builds character. Bullying is now known to have long-term negative academic, emotional and social effects on targets, bullies and bystanders.

1 out of 5 students were bullied on school property in 2015
1 out of 7 students were electronically bullied in 2015

Learn the warning signs:
• Unexplained damage or loss of clothing and other personal items
• Evidence of physical abuse, such as bruises or scratches
• Loss of friends; changes in friends
• Reluctance to participate in activities with peers
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Unusually sad, moody, anxious, lonely, or depressed
• Problems with eating, sleeping, bed-wetting
• Decline in school achievement
• Headaches, stomachaches, other physical complaints

Upcoming Trainings:
Join us for our Bullying 101 webinar on June 28th from 12:00pm-1:00pm

Check back in on Thursday May 26th for more information on how to create a positive school climate within your community.

View additional resources for parents.

National Prevention Week: Thursday, May 19: Prevention of Illicit Drug Use & Youth Marijuana Use

by Jacqueline Longo, May 19, 2016

Program Coordinator, Youth Leadership
The Governor's Prevention Partnership

"Marijuana use in youth is high and many young people believe the myths that marijuana is not harmful and it is not addictive. View one of the new youth focused infographics that focuses on combating the myths of marijuana and visit our website for more!

Marijuana: The Reality

Many youth believe that smoking marijuana isn’t harmful.  42.1% of CT’s high school students report smoking marijuana at least once in their life. The perception harm continues to decrease. Learn about the truth and impact of using marijuana."

View additional resources to speak with youth about the dangers of substance abuse. 

Alcohol and You

by Jacqueline Longo, May 17, 2016

Program Coordinator, Youth Leadership

The Governor's Prevention Partnership

"Alcohol is the number one substance abused by Connecticut youth. Learn the truths about underage drinking and the physical, mental, and social consequences. Remember: Not everyone is doing it!"

View additional resources to speak with youth about the dangers of underage drinking.

Marijuana Policy Boot Camp

by Jacqueline Longo, May 5, 2016

Program Coordinator, Youth Leadership
The Governor's Prevention Partnership

"Did you know that 1 out of 4 teens report to smoking marijuana and that marijuana can cause significant short and long term changes in the brain? Join partners from across the state at a Marijuana Policy Boot Camp to prevent the legalization of recreational marijuana from becoming a reality.

Friday, May 13, 2016 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Goodwin College One Riverside Drive, East Hartford, CT

Hear from national and local experts on marijuana policy and research. Engage with youth advocates, grassroots providers, non-profit leaders, legislators and policy experts as we learn about the latest critical information on the impact of marijuana legislation."

Learn more and register here!

View resources to speak with youth about the dangers of substance abuse.

Find a Prescription Medication Drop Box Near You

by Jacqueline Longo, May 3, 2016

Program Coordinator, Youth Leadership
The Governor's Prevention Partnership

"Did you know that most teens that misuse prescription medications say they obtain these drugs from a friend or family member’s medicine cabinet? Many local police departments have medication drop boxes in their lobby so residents can drop off unused prescription medication any time anonymously. There are currently 60 collection box locations in Connecticut.

View here to find a local collection box near you!"

View resources to speak with youth about the dangers of substance abuse.