Pubdate: Sat, 14 Oct 2006 Source: Cape Breton Post (CN NS) Copyright: 2006 Cape Breton Post Contact: http://www.capebretonpost.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/777 Author: Tanya Collier MacDonald TEACHERS LEARN HOW TO TALK TO STUDENTS ABOUT ADDICTIONS Two-Day Workshop Attracts 130 Teachers MEMBERTOU - Talking to students about addictions should come easier to 130 teachers following a two-day workshop that ended Friday. Junior and high school students are more socially informed with today's easier access to information on sources like the Internet, said facilitator Nancy Levy. However, they often lack the level of maturity that traditionally grows at the same rate as awareness. "We need to listen more to their experiences," said Levy. "Media is so strong. It's a different world." The workshops, held at the Membertou Trade and Convention Centre, gave teachers practical techniques they can apply in the classroom to help students learn independently about drugs and alcohol use. The information can be used when interacting with peers as well. "When students miss (class) time because of substance abuse, it effects their ability to learn," said Levy. Mary Lou Andrea, healthy living consultant with the Cape Breton-Victoria Regional School Board, said the workshop should also help teachers identify youth at risk and to give teachers greater comfort when approaching addiction topics. Joanne Chabassol, manager of prevention and community education for addiction services in this region, said substance abuse is a serious public health concern that can result in personal injury, unplanned, unprotected sexual activity, unsafe driving and criminal activity. Effective school-based programs have the potential to reach beyond the classroom, impacting on families and the community, she said. "Drug prevention is most effective when taught as part of a comprehensive health curriculum by teachers who have an understanding of the best practices in addiction prevention." The workshops were funded by Health Canada through the Drug Strategy Community Initiatives Fund. - --- MAP posted-by: Derek