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Substance Use, System-Involved Youth, and Our Educational System
NDTAC is pleased to announce the release of its latest issue brief, Substance Use, System-Involved Youth, and Our Educational System. Recent advances in neuroscience have broadened our understanding of adolescence, particularly during a time of heightened neuroplasticity in which the brain is highly malleable. This may be particularly true for youth involved in child welfare and juvenile justice systems, and presents both challenges and opportunities for parents, guardians, caring adults, educators, and professionals working within those systems. These discoveries compel us to find ways to mitigate potential risk factors that may lead to substance use and to increase protective factors that bolster adolescents’ well-being. This brief offers recommendations and associated resources focused on bringing together the key concepts to help adults increase their awareness and take action.
