26/05/2026
Great Appreciation goes to our partners Oxfam and YWCA of South Sudan for their support in facilitating a great Integrated Youth Workshop.
Title: Resilient Minds: Integrated Youth Training on Substance Use & Mental Health
Background: Young people face increasing risks from early substance use and untreated mental health challenges, which are often interconnected. Stigma, lack of information, and limited coping skills prevent many from seeking help. This training addresses the gap by equipping youth to understand the brain’s vulnerability, recognize warning signs, and support peers safely.
3. Goal: To empower young people (ages 15–24) with knowledge, practical skills, and peer-support tools to prevent substance misuse and promote positive mental health.
4. Key Objectives:
· Understand the link between substance use (alcohol/drugs) and mental health disorders (anxiety, depression).
· Identify early warning signs of dependence and emotional distress in self and peers.
· Develop healthy coping strategies and refusal skills for social pressure.
· Learn basic peer support and referral steps to trusted adults or services.
· Reduce stigma through interactive, youth-led discussions.
5. Target Audience: 25–30 youth per session (school clubs, community groups, or out-of-school settings).
6. Core Topics (6-hour session):
· Module 1: Brain development, why youth are vulnerable, and the substance–mental health cycle.
· Module 2: Recognizing red flags: mood changes, isolation, risky use.
· Module 3: Communication skills: saying “no,” offering peer support, and self-care.
· Module 4: Resources and referral pathways (counseling, helplines, local services).