Fear-based substance-use education is leaving children without the information and supports they need to avoid the most devastating effects of drugs and alcohol, according to a B.C. nurse and researcher.
Jenkins, who founded Wellstream: The Canadian Centre for Innovation in Child and Youth Mental Health and Substance Use, says the organization aims to alter outdated approaches. The group works with educational professionals to create and share national standards. That's meant to help teachers and school administrators do their jobs efficiently, effectively and in line with scientific evidence.
Jenkins cited one recent study, which using a sample of schools in Ontario and found evidence the K-12 school sector lacks clear, evidence-based guidance for substance use education and intervention. That has led to a wide variety of approaches both within and between schools. Most school programs were chosen based on popular belief and marketing rather than evidence-based studies, the authors concluded.
First, Wellstream is working to develop national standards for substance use education and intervention in the K-12 school system. That will include collaborating with other researchers to review evidence, policy and public opinion around how to prevent the use of substances in schools.
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