This training provides an overview of the development of youth substance use disorders, key issues to be aware of when working with youth struggling with substance use, and how best to support youth in recovery and their families. After a brief review of typical adolescent brain development, the training will focus on the impact of substance use on the developing brain. Other key risk factors for the development of youth substance use disorders will be reviewed, including early onset, trauma, co-occurring mental health issues, genetics, and environmental factors. We will look at trends of use and how best to intervene through screening, assessment, and referral to treatment. Best practices for engaging youth in treatment will be emphasized (e.g. Motivational Interviewing). This training will also review the different levels of care currently available in Massachusetts, licensed by the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS), Office of Youth and Young Adult Services, including detox/stabilization, residential treatment, recovery high schools, outpatient services, etc. Key peer recovery supports and family recovery supports will also be identified.
If you have any questions or difficulty accessing the training, contact David Stanley at davidstanley@healthrecovery.org.
Materials
- The CRAFFT+N Interview
- BSAS Youth & Young Adult Treatment Program
- Downloadable Parent Resources
- Drug Guide for Parents: Learn the Facts to Keep Your Teen Safe
- Engaging Adolescents in Treatment
- COVID-19: Substance Use Disorder & Mental Health Resources
- Encouraging Motivation to Change: Am I Doing this Right?
- Online & Phone Resources for Recovery Support, Parenting, and COVID-19
- Self-Care is Putting on YOUR Oxygen Mask First
- The ABCs of Managing Secondary Trauma
- Youth SU 101 Webinar Slides
These training modules have been developed by the Institute for Health & Recovery with funding provided by Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services.