Hazelden Betty Ford partners with schools to address substance abuse

One of the state’s biggest school districts is partnering with a mental health leader and substance abuse counseling to address an increase in substance abuse.

Specialists with the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation say the COVID-19 pandemic creates dangerous consequences with our youth as they turn to alcohol and drugs. To help address this, it’s connected with Anoka-Hennepin Schools. With warning signs including poor grades and attendance, they’ve been able to help students who have had a tough time adjusting to life in a pandemic.

Anoka-Hennepin school district, local nonprofit partnership aims to help students with mental health, prevention services

“When the school has so much face time with students, whether that’s virtually or in-person are able to watch and monitor,” said Cindy Doth, youth and outreach manager with Hazelden Betty Ford.

“When we can intervene earlier it can change that for that young person to potentially not have to deal with long term consequences of substance abuse,” she added.

She says the partnership has gone well. Despite it being an issue the foundation wishes it did not have to help with, it’s created an environment for students to feel comfortable talking about it, leading to brighter futures.

“When a student knows there’s someone who is really offering support and that guidance and coaching that isn’t telling them they’re addicted, who isn’t telling them what they have to do but really joining with them in their journey the better the outcome," Doth said.

Specialists like Doth have been able to help because schools have been able to help spot red flags parents and families also have a responsibility to see them and get the help that’s needed. She says to watch out for a few warning signs:

• Mood swings
• Change in diet
• Poor sleeping patterns

For more resources for your child, or anyone who may need help, can be found by clicking here.