Mount Greylock PTO, NBCC Hosting Forum on Youth Substance Abuse
WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — The Mount Greylock Regional School PTO and Northern Berkshire Community Coalition are teaming up for a community discussion about preventing youth substance abuse.
The public forum, "What's the Harm?" will be held Wednesday, Dec. 2, at 6 p.m. at Mount Greylock Regional School.
Statistics show that the use of alcohol as a teenager dramatically increases the likelihood of illicit drug use and of developing a substance abuse disorder, or addiction. Teens' brains are still developing, and as a result they are especially vulnerable to the damaging effects of substance use.
- A panel of experts will speak and be available to answer questions related to youth substance abuse such as:
- What is the harm to teens of experimenting with alcohol and other drugs?
- What is the role of the adults in the community in preventing youth from abusing drugs?
- How can I talk to my child about alcohol, marijuana and other drugs?
- What is vaping and is it as bad as cigarettes?
- Should I be concerned about the heroin issue in North Berkshire County?
- What are the resources in our community to prevent and address substance abuse?
Speakers will include Dr. Jennifer Michaels, medical director of the Brien Center; Dr. Thomas Hyde, retired pediatrician; Mount Greylock Vice Principal Jacob Schutz; Berkshire County District Attorney David Capeless; members of Williamstown and Lanesborough police departments; and Wendy Penner, director of prevention programs at the coalition.
"Studies show that adolescents listen to their parents when it comes to issues such as substance use," Valerie Hall, president of the Mount Greylock PTO, said. "Parents need to work with each other in our community to keep our children safe."
This event is free and open to the public. Pizza will be provided at 6, followed by the presentation and discussion. Childcare is available upon request.
To register for this event go to nbccoalition.org, the Mount Greylock PTO Facebook page, or call 413-663-7488, Ext. 14.
Transportation is available from North Adams to and from the event at Mount Greylock. Space is limited; to reserve a spot contact NBCC's The Family Place at 413-663-7588 or indicate your transportation needs on your registration form.
