The Lake County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board has introduced a prevention program aimed at reaching thousands of middle and high school students with critical messages about mental health, substance misuse, and how to seek help.
Through a partnership with ThinkFast Interactive, students participate in interactive assemblies that combine live hosting, multimedia, and real-time feedback to promote smart decision-making and healthy behaviors.
Developed in 1997, ThinkFast also tackles underage drinking, bullying, traffic safety and distracted driving, and appeals to all ages with its professionally designed production set, sound system, music videos and informative and engaging awareness trivia.
The initiative is funded through Ohio’s State Opioid and Stimulant Response Grant, ADAMHS Board officials noted.
ThinkFast is currently being delivered in schools throughout Lake County, including: Willowick Middle School; Heritage Middle School; Andrews Osborne Academy; Wickliffe Middle/High School; St. Mary of the Assumption School; Auburn Career Center (both campuses); Lake Catholic High School; Kirtland Middle School; Willoughby Middle School; Fairport Middle/High School; Eastlake Middle School; LaMuth Middle School; Willoughby School of Innovation; Perry Middle School; New Life Christian Academy; Painesville Harvey; Shore Middle School; Madison Middle School; Eastlake North High School; Madison High School; and Memorial Middle School.
Each session engages students in game-show-like competition and conversation around key topics such as:
• Understanding mental health and managing stress
• Pop culture
• The impact of vaping, nicotine, alcohol and other substances on the developing brain
• How and where to find help in times of need
• Student surveys
“Programs like ThinkFast Interactive meet students where they are — using energy, technology and peer engagement to deliver meaningful prevention messages,” said ADAMHS Board Executive Director Kim Fraser. “We want every student to know that their mental health matters and that help is always available.”
The presentations, she added, reinforce “important facts,” including that mental health is something everyone has, that most challenges begin early in life, and that early support can make a lasting difference.
Students are also encouraged to identify trusted adults and support systems to learn about resources, such as calling the Lake County Crisis Hotline 440-953-TALK (8255) or texting 988 in times of crisis.
Beyond school-based programming, Fraser noted, the ADAMHS Board connects youth and families to a comprehensive network of 16 local provider agencies offering services such as in-home counseling, art therapy, substance use treatment, gambling support, mental healthcare and youth mentoring programs.
For more information about prevention services or to access support, visit the Lake County ADAMHS Board website at www.helpthatworks.us/ or call its Compass Line at 440-350-2000.
