This grant proposal is focused on an intervention to prevent youth alcohol abuse in Monroe County, FL. Children and teens that have experienced at least one adverse childhood experience (ACE) are more likely to fall into alcohol dependency. In addition, Monroe County is the county that may have the highest rate of youth alcohol use. This proposed project involves shortening each regular class in a school day in public middle and high schools in the county such that about 45 minutes at the end of the school day is freed on Mondays and Fridays. During this time, the intervention takes place, where students are taught the dangers of alcohol dependency, how to cope with addiction, how to develop self-esteem, and building resiliency, among other topics. A child psychologist is also available and will have one-on-one appointments with each student.
In the social ecological model created by the CDC, this intervention works to address the first three levels, particularly the individual level and community level. The individual level is addressed through lessons how to cultivate self esteem and resilience, the relationship level through interactions and support between students, and the community level through the school setting.
The trauma-informed principles that will be incorporated will be safety; trustworthiness and transparency; peer support and mutual self-help; and empowerment, voice, and choice. In addition, the program will utilize a public health framework within all three levels of prevention. Primary prevention will focus on helping all students avoid alcohol dependency, secondary prevention will be accomplished via screening for ACEs, and tertiary prevention will involve assisting students struggling with addiction and offering resources for organizations that may help.
Comments (0)