This practical resource for schools looks at the relationship between mental illness and substance use disorders in young people. While studies show the link between the two, drug use is often mistakenly viewed as 'deviant' behaviour rather than as a coping mechanism for unmet needs. This book offers schools and youth settings a different approach to both supporting young people with mental health and substance use issues and implementing preventative measures. The concept of risk taking in young people will be explored, with particular reference to risk taking behaviours as coping mechanisms for mental distress. Other topics covered include how stress, low self-esteem and body image issues can lend to substance use, including performance enhancing drugs and high caffeine drinks. Examples of how to address these issues through PSHE will be addressed in each chapter, as well as tips for supporting individual pupils from expert practitioners and researchers in this field. Reviews: This is a timely book given the concerns that many people who work with young people will have about mental health and drug use. Ian provides the perfect blend of evidence and professional experience when highlighting what works and what doesn't, making this book a pragmatic resource for teachers, parents and others who work with young people. — Ian Hamilton, Associate Professor, University of York I would urge those working in mental health and education to read this book. Ian achieves a rare feat of combining theory, evidence and practical application in an engaging and comprehensive narrative. This book will help many adults support their young people. — Mike Armiger This book is a comprehensive, accessible, and must have contemporary guide to understanding and supporting young people in the 21st century. Each chapter is an excellent distillation of the author's clear regard for evidence based approaches, and is an informative and engaging resource for anyone working with young people with complex issues. — Andy Maddison – Public Health Improvement Coordinator (Risk Taking Behaviours) This practical, wide-ranging and engaging book is an excellent resource for teachers, youth workers and parents. Based on evidence and firmly rooted in the experiences of young people and those who support them, Teen Substance Use, Mental Health and Body Image provides advice and strategies that will make a positive difference. — Clare Stafford, CEO, The Charlie Waller Memorial Trust An accessible and helpful guide for professionals looking to build skills and knowledge around adolescent wellbeing. As well as detailing best practice examples, Macdonald importantly highlights approaches which although well-intentioned, can potentially create more problems than they solve. Highly recommended reading. — Rick Bradley, Specialist on Adolescent Mental Health and Substance Use About the Author: Ian Macdonald is a trainer - including on substance use and developing whole school approaches to mental health - for the Charlie Waller Memorial Trust and a Consultant for Mentor UK. |