The week of May 13-17 is National Drug Prevention Week.
“During this week, drug prevention workers will focus on primary prevention and the root causes of issues such as substance use in the schools,†said, Leighann Eruzione, executive director of CASA (Community Action for Safe Alternatives).
“Our goal for the week is to create awareness on how preventative programming and education can be impactful. Additionally, CASA workers are focusing on mental health as it was a significant area of need in our community,†Eruzione said
As the primary prevention coalition of the Winthrop community, CASA aims to help improve the quality of life for all Winthrop residents and provide a safer environment for children and youth by providing programming, advocacy and educational opportunities for the community.
All across the United States, mental health related issues are on the rise at an alarming rate. Similarly in Winthrop, recent data results show an increase in depressive symptoms, anxiety and suicide.
According to 2018 data results, 40 percent of adolescents in Winthrop identify experiencing depressive symptoms with have a notable increase in rates of suicidal ideation and attempts.
In an effort to bring awareness and education to the community on these topics, CASA- in collaboration with the Town of Winthrop Health Department and Winthrop Public schools are hosting community events.
The specific events during this week are in response to the PNA (personnel needs assessment) data for depressive symptoms, suicide and anxiety for the youth of Winthrop. Our events are targeted to help adults talk to youth about these topics and for youth to talk to adults or their peers on these topics. Our open house is to introduce the community to the comprehensive drop in program we offer at CASA. Using a clinical lense, we discuss relevant and “hot†topics that are impacting the health and wellness of today’s youth.
The specific events are in response to the PNA data for depressive symptoms, suicide and anxiety for the youth of Winthrop. The events are targeted to help adults talk to youth about these topics and for youth to talk to adults or their peers on these topics. An open house is planned to introduce the community to the comprehensive drop in program at CASA.