SAFE Project Prevention Month Webinar: Youth Prevention; Transformed by a Paradigm Shift

Participants will be guided through an innovative exercise using the substance use paradigm tool which identifies 4 distinct paradigms: moral, disease, social, and identity. Establishing an understanding of what paradigm they most closely identify with, participants will gain knowledge for a transformative response that illuminates the power of prevention. As well as combats stigma, breaks the silence and sheds light on rooted assumptions and beliefs that impact prevention programming and multi sector collaborations. Presenters will share resources and support for steps necessary in undergoing a paradigm shift, elevating prevention programming and practices. For a more diversified approach to all forms of prevention services, one in which the scope of prevention is broadened and elevated in support of youth in all stages of development.

Learning Outcomes:
1. Identify the 4 intersecting paradigms of substance use and the unique roles they play in prevention.
2. Get to the core of the matter about stigma and how it perpetuates into and across systems, professions and cultures.
3. Identify ways in which the paradigms influence prevention practices, programming, and services.
4. Inspire frank and honest conversations rooted in compassion and genuine care for all concerned about the youth substance use landscape.
5. Preventing and reducing the progression of youth substance use through a broadend lens.

Issues being addressed:
The stagnating impact of stigma caused by the lens in which substance use is viewed
The stifling impact caused by a spiral of silence
Rooted assumptions, beliefs and biases that impact prevention programming and all forms of prevention services.

Originally recorded 10/29/24