HIGH SCHOOL
Overview
The DECYDE High School [HS] Program consists of a series of four fully developed lessons which are intended to be taught in sequence. However, individual lessons or activities can be standalone depending on timing and the needs of the class. Each lesson consists of a lesson plan, activities, answer keys and supplementary information to aid teachers in the delivery of substance use health education.
Lesson HS.1: Substance Use Policies and Regulations
Students will examine the importance of substance use policies at school and in the workplace, learn about the difference between legalization and decriminalization of drugs, and discuss the safety of different categories of drugs, including illegal and legal and regulated and unregulated.
Lesson HS.2: Be Prepared: Understanding Harm, Safety, and Emergency Response
Students will learn about the effects of substances on overall health and well-being, harm reduction strategies and how to help others and themselves in an emergency. Students will also explore a case study on how different decisions lead to different outcomes, and how to make difficult decisions using the FACE Decision-Making Model.
Lesson HS.3: Navigating Substance Use: Understanding Choices, Stigma, and Support
Students will explore the substance use spectrum and consider why teens may start using substances. They will learn what addiction is, examine how stigma impacts people’s experiences with substance use, and identify supports and resources for those affected.
Lesson HS.4: Mental Health and Substance Use: Understanding the Connection and Building Resilience
Students will learn about the five dimensions of health and wellness and how mental health connects to substance use. They will develop an understanding of substance use disorders and mental health challenges, and explore self-care strategies and support systems that can promote well-being.
Refer to the following information to aid in the delivery of the lessons:
Mental Health and Substance Use Health Glossary
Provides definitions that promote informed and respectful dialogue in the classroom and other learning environments.
Educational Materials
Consist of concise and accessible information for educators on key topics related to substance use, mental health, well-being, and skills-based health education. The relevant resources applicable for each lesson plan are referenced throughout.
Substance Snapshots
Offer concise and accessible overviews of various substances. Each Snapshot outlines what the substance is, how it is used, its potential effects, when to seek emergency help, and strategies to stay safe. The Snapshots relevant to the lesson plans are referenced throughout.
Some relevant materials include:
The Skills-Based Health Education (SBHE)
The FACE Decision-Making Model
Harm Reduction
Neurodiversity
Stigma
Stigma and judgment around substance use can negatively impact youth, making it harder for them to seek help or make safer choices. Educators play an important role by using non-judgmental approaches and first-person language to foster a supportive environment that encourages open conversation and help-seeking.
