A prevention program giving youth tools to resist substance use is growing across BC.
This week, the BC government announced that more young people will soon have better access to substance-use prevention throughout the province.
The Province will achieve this by implementing the PreVenture program in school districts throughout Vancouver Island and BC.
PreVenture is an internationally recognized, evidence-based program that helps students of between 12 and 18-years-old develop skills to navigate common challenges, such as peer pressure, identity development and interpersonal conflict.
According to the Province, these key factors will help prevent early drug and substance use and mental-health challenges.
“We know young people today are under more pressure than ever, from social media to school stress, and they need support early on,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health.
“By expanding the PreVenture program to more schools, we’re giving students tools to understand the risks of substance use, while building the confidence and skills they need to handle life’s challenges and stay healthy.”
Since launching in 2023, the program has expanded to more than 80 schools in more than 20 BC school districts through partnerships with districts and regional health authorities.
The program is being implemented in these schools through the work of the Foundry, who provides schools with comprehensive support, training for school staff, coaching and resources.
All of this is done with no direct cost to schools.
The program is instead funded through a $2 million annual investment from the Ministry of Health.
“Mental-health challenges have become increasingly complicated for young people today, and without support, they can have a lasting impact on their lives,” said Jodie Wickens, Minister of Children and Family Development.
“PreVenture gives young people the ability to prevent crisis and gives them hope for a brighter future.”
The Province’s hope and intention behind this endeavour is that youths will learn skills that will help prevent them from engaging in substance-use.
