In recent years, there have been significant increases in alcohol, drug and substance use globally. This substance use has significantly impacted primary school-age students as well as those pursuing post-secondary education.

Warning signs that may indicate that a student is impacted by opioids, alcohol and other substance use include:

Younger students

Poor mental/motor development
Memory and perception problems
Speech and language problems
Developmental delays
Reduced decision-making abilities
Impaired self-regulation
Poor response to stressful situations
Impaired school performance
Anxiety
Depression
Secretive behaviors
Poor hygiene/changes in physical appearance
Disruptive behavior
Rapid changes in mood
Decline in academic performance or attendance

Older students

Mood and personality changes
Depression
Hyperactivity
Health and hygiene issues
Changes in relationships with friends and family
Problems with police
Unhealthy peer/dating relationships
Disengagement from school
Poor attendance or dropping out

Strategies to support students who may be impacted by opioids, alcohol and other substance use include:

Find out what kinds of resources are available in your school or district so you know where to turn to get help for a student
Talk with educators and administrators to find out how best to support students for whom you are concerned
Learn to recognize the signs of opioid, alcohol and substance use so you can refer students appropriately
Talk with students about opioid, alcohol and substance use.
Integrate basic alcohol and drug prevention skill-building into everyday teaching so students can learn to:

Make good decisions

Solve problems

Become more assertive and practice learning refusal skills

Be more self-aware

Build positive relationships

Help students learn coping and stress management skills such as:

Self-control

Standing up to peer pressure

Time management

Dealing with difficult situations like conflict or loss

Setting goals