A Community Discussion: Building Resilience, Protecting Kids
Learn about supporting your children to encourage resilience and protect them from harmful behaviours like drug use.
With the fentanyl crisis in the forefront of media coverage in B.C., leading public health experts and police will provide guidance and practical tips for New Westminster parents to build positive relationships with their children and teens.
“Being Present in the Face of the Fentanyl Crisis: A Community Discussion on Prevention” is a special session May 1, 2017 at Fraser River Middle School.
The free session takes place at 7 p.m. and is offered in collaboration with:
- Fraser Health Authority
- New Westminster Schools
- District Parents Advisory Council
- New Westminster Police Department
Guest speakers include New Westminster’s Medical Health Officer, Dr. Lisa Mu. She will provide an update on the status of the current fentanyl situation and relevant context for our local community. The session will feature a youth who will share her experiences with drug addiction and her journey to recovery.
Mark Goheen, a Clinical Specialist with Mental Health and Substance User Services at Fraser Health, will talk about how to “be present” with children and youth. Encouraging dialogue, being a partner with your teen, and other tips can nurture and encourage resilience in children and teens to help prevent them from harmful behaviours. Goheen said parents, teachers, and other support workers will hear a reassuring message that listening and attending to children can play a significant role in preventing isolation and alienation. “It is a time to move closer to children and to stay connected, with your ears and hearts open,” he said.
Constable Tim Callaghan with the New Westminster Police Department will lead the discussion, which he said will focus on encouraging a greater awareness and understanding of the health issues.
Local service providers will also be on hand to share what they offer in the area of mental health and substance use.