Success StoryMiddle School Students Face the "Truth & Consequences" of Substance Misuse



Middle School Students Face the "Truth & Consequences" of Substance Misuse

Author: Brooke Hogancamp

Planning Unit: Carlisle County CES

Major Program: Substance Use Prevention and Recovery General

Plan of Work: Nutrition and Food Access, Physical Activity, Health and Wellness, and Personal Safety

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

Substance Misuse Disorder and Prevention are an ongoing concern in Carlisle County. Research shows that substance misuse can cause permanent changes in a developing brain, potentially leading to mental health struggles and addiction disorders later in life. Carlisle County FCS Extension, and the Carlisle County School System collaborated to present "Truth & Consequences: The Choice is Yours" (T&C) to 8th grade students  and their guardians as a tool to demonstrate the potential dangers associated with alcohol and substance misuse.  T&C is a fully immersive educational event that allows participants to navigate the real life consequences associated with the choices they could be faced with regarding drugs and alcohol. Recovery Program participants provided personal testimonials to the participants, leaving one participant saying they would "learn from the stories/experiences" they shared.

Of the participants, 96% stated the program help them develop a better understanding of the legal consequences of substance misuse after the program, 86% have a better understanding of the physical health consequences of substance misuse, and 98% claim a better understanding of the risk and harm of substance misuse. Student participants left saying "I will try to improve the decisions I make" and they will take actions such as "not doing drugs and not being pressured into doing stuff I don't want to" and "be more aware and cautious of future actions."






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