Problematic substance use prevention
Many young people experiment with substance use at some point during their development. For some students, this experimentation is considered low risk and may be for a relatively short period of time. For others, it may become excessive and develop into a significant problem.
Substance use continuum
Substance use occurs along a spectrum, which is commonly referred to as a continuum of substance use or substance use spectrum. It ranges from no use to substance use disorder or experimentation to substance use disorder[i],[ii]. A continuum of evidence-based strategies and supports is recommended to address the needs of all those who are coping with substance misuse, regardless of where they fall on the continuum[iii].
The role of the school mental health professional
As a school mental health professional, you have a role to play in supporting educators with mental health promotion efforts, and in providing prevention and early intervention services in this area.
Practice guide for school mental health professionals
Learn more about evidence-based practice for school mental health professionals supporting students with problematic substance use in A Practice Guide for School Mental Health Professionals: School-Based Interventions Related to Student Cannabis Use.
Resources about substance use
Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health: The Final Report
Alcohol Screening and Brief Intervention for Youth: A Practioners Guide
For more information
Brief summary of evidence-informed strategies by tier
All members of the school community have a role to play in promoting wellbeing and preventing and intervening with problematic substance use. At each tier of a comprehensive model, different professionals have different roles. Click on the options below for Tier 1, 2 and 3 to review evidence-informed strategies for school mental health professionals and other members of the school community at each tier.