Rhode Island Department of Education in Collaboration with the Rhode Island Prevention Resource Center, December 22, 2020
This is the seventh webinar in the RIDE Distance Learning Series. This webinar was presented by Ann Marie Rakovic (JSI Research & Training Institute, Inc.).
This session will provide an overview of the results of an LGBTQ Youth and Substance Use Prevention Report for five Rhode Island towns: Cranston, Johnston, North Providence, Scituate and Smithfield, conducted in 2019 by John Snow, Inc. for the Tri-County Community Action Agency and funded by the RI Department of Behavioral Health, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals (BHDDH). Findings indicate that LGBTQ youth are at greater risk of not successfully completing developmental milestones like developing a positive self and social identity, having peer acceptance, and developing healthy relationships with adult role models including teachers and family members. Because of these and other stressors like COVID-19, LGBTQ youth are at increased risk for various physical, emotional, mental and behavioral health issues including substance use and misuse. The session will also provide an analysis of relevant statewide and local Rhode Island Student Survey (RISS) data and an overview of key recommendations made by students from focus groups in area high schools, as well as community stakeholders.
Objectives:
1. Participants will learn at least 5 substance use and mental health risk factors experienced by RI students who identify as LGBTQ.
2. Participants will learn at least 5 tips and strategies for supporting students who identify as LGBTQ particularly in the context of COVID-19.
If you would like to access the LGBTQ Youth and Substance Use Prevention Report prior to the webinar, you can do so at this link: https://www.jsi.com/resource/lgbtq-youth-and-substance-use-prevention-report/
You can view the webinar recording here.
