Tucson teens learn Indigenous knowledge to reduce drug use, dating violence | Subscriber

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“It’s a type of medicine, but for me it’s also a life-ruining thing,” said one student before discussing his own family’s experience with a loved one who needed medication for mental health problems, as well as heroin consumed. He talked about the impact on his mother’s life and his own and what his family learned from it.

“When people share, it’s a gift,” Ruiz said before thanking the student.

Ruiz also reminded the class that considering other people’s situations and experiences is vital. Things can look different when you factor in factors like race, socioeconomic status, or disability, he said.

“The more conscious and alert you are, the more you have an advantage in making healthy choices,” Ruiz told the group.

Talking about the training she received through drug prevention programs like DARE, Contreras said the tactics weren’t very effective.

“You deserve full drug education,” said Contreras. “You are all worthy and deserve greater, real, and real information. So much is left out when the conversation is ‘just say no’. “

“We are there together”

Babeu, the director of Envision High School, said it was important not only to talk but also to walk with kids and teens. She shared directly with the students during the Thursday class and spoke about her family’s experiences and her own experiences.

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