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Youth Behavioral Health

Supporting the well-being of Dublin’s youngest residents is a top priority. The Dublin Wellness Alliance connects families, schools and community organizations to promote positive mental health, prevent risk behaviors and provide accessible support for youth.

Explore programs, resources and initiatives designed to help our young people thrive — mentally, emotionally and socially. Together, we can create a community where every youth has the support they need to succeed.

Talk. Listen. Learn.

Talk. Listen. Learn. is a simple framework designed to help parents start conversations, stay connected, and respond with confidence—without fear or pressure.

Talk

Starting conversations that keep the door open

Quick Start:

  • Choose a calm, low-pressure moment
  • Ask open-ended questions
  • Listen more than you speak
  • Stay curious, not confrontational

Conversation starters:

  • “I’ve noticed you seem stressed lately—how are things going?”
  • “What are kids at school talking about right now?”
  • “How are you feeling about everything lately?”

The goal isn’t a perfect conversation. It’s keeping the door open.

Listen

What your teen may be trying to tell you

Quick Start:

  • Notice patterns, not one-time changes
  • Stay calm—even if what you hear is hard
  • Reflect back what you’re hearing
  • Avoid rushing to solutions

Signs that may signal stress include changes in sleep, mood, grades, friendships, or behavior. These don’t automatically mean something is wrong—but they may mean your child needs support.

Learn

Understanding today’s risks

Mental health and substance use are often connected. Awareness helps parents focus on communication, support, and early intervention rather than fear or punishment.

CTA: Explore conversation topics below.

Conversation Topics

Each topic includes guidance to help parents start conversations, understand risks, and know where to turn for support.
Alcohol

How to Talk About Alcohol

A Conversation Guide for Parents and Caregivers

Alcohol is widely accepted in adult culture, which can make conversations with kids more complicated. Talking early and often helps young people make safer decisions and understand expectations.

This guide helps parents talk about alcohol in ways that build trust and reduce risk.

What Alcohol Is

Alcohol is a depressant that slows brain function and affects judgment, coordination, and reaction time. Because teens’ brains are still developing, alcohol can have stronger effects and increase the risk of long-term problems.

Why Alcohol Can Be Risky for Young People

Underage drinking increases the risk of:

  • Accidents and injuries
  • Risky decision-making
  • Mental health concerns
  • Alcohol dependence later in life

Early conversations can significantly reduce these risks.

How Kids Are Being Exposed to Alcohol

Youth may encounter alcohol through:

  • Family gatherings or celebrations
  • Older friends or siblings
  • Parties or social events
  • Social media portraying drinking as normal or harmless

Availability and social pressure often matter more than intent.

Signs of Alcohol Use

Possible signs include:

  • Smell of alcohol
  • Sudden changes in behavior or mood
  • Declining school performance
  • Increased secrecy or defensiveness
  • Physical symptoms such as headaches or nausea

Again, patterns over time are more important than isolated signs.

How to Start the Conversation

Effective conversations about alcohol are ongoing and age-appropriate.

Helpful principles:

  • Be clear about expectations
  • Explain the “why,” not just the rule
  • Listen without lecturing
  • Reinforce safety and trust

What These Conversations Can Sound Like

These are examples — not scripts.

Example 1: Setting Expectations

Parent:
“Our family rule is no drinking before you’re of age. That’s about safety, not punishment.”

Example 2: Talking About Parties

Parent:
“If you’re ever somewhere alcohol is present and you feel uncomfortable, call me — no questions asked.”

Example 3: If a Child Pushes Back

Child:
“Everyone drinks.”

Parent:
“It can feel that way, but not everyone does. What matters is what keeps you safe.”

Example 4: Closing the Conversation

Parent:
“This isn’t a one-time talk. I want you to feel comfortable coming to me anytime.”

How Parents Can Help Protect Their Kids

  • Set clear family expectations
  • Discuss safe exits from uncomfortable situations
  • Model responsible behavior
  • Keep communication open

Trusted Resources

How to Talk About Fentanyl

A Conversation Guide for Parents and Caregivers

Talking about fentanyl can feel overwhelming. You don’t need to have all the answers or deliver a perfect message. What matters most is creating space for honest, ongoing conversations that prioritize safety, trust, and care.

This guide is designed to help parents and caregivers understand fentanyl, recognize risks, and feel more confident starting conversations with their child.

What Is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. While it is used medically for severe pain, illegally manufactured fentanyl is driving a national overdose crisis.

Because fentanyl is so potent, even a very small amount can be deadly — especially when someone does not know it is present.

Why Fentanyl Is So Dangerous

Illicit fentanyl is often mixed into other drugs to increase potency and profit. Many people exposed to fentanyl — including teens — are not seeking it out.
There is no reliable way to see, smell, or taste fentanyl. Pills, powders, or other substances may look identical to non-fentanyl versions.

How Kids Are Being Exposed to Fentanyl

Fentanyl has been found mixed into:

  • Pills made to look like prescription medications (Percocet, Oxycodone, Xanax)
  • Cocaine
  • Methamphetamine
  • Heroin
  • Occasionally marijuana (rare, but documented)

Fake prescription pills are one of the most common sources of fentanyl exposure among teens and young adults.

Signs of Fentanyl or Opioid Use

Signs are not always obvious, but may include:

Physical signs

  • Extreme drowsiness or “nodding off”
  • Slowed or shallow breathing
  • Pinpoint pupils
  • Nausea or vomiting

Behavioral signs

  • Sudden secrecy about phone or online activity
  • Mood swings or withdrawal from family
  • Changes in friends or routines
  • Missing money or unexplained packages

One sign alone does not mean drug use. Patterns and changes over time matter most.

How to Start the Conversation

You don’t need to have a single “big talk.” Small, ongoing conversations build trust.

Helpful principles:

  • Lead with curiosity, not assumptions
  • Listen more than you talk
  • Stay calm, even if you feel worried
  • Keep the focus on safety, not punishment

What These Conversations Can Sound Like

These are examples — not scripts. Use language that feels natural to you.

Example 1: Opening the Door

Parent:
“I want to talk about something I’ve been hearing about — fentanyl. Not because I think you’re doing anything wrong, but because it’s showing up in places people don’t expect. What have you heard?”
Why this works: Explains why you’re talking without accusing.

Example 2: Explaining Hidden Risk

Parent:
“One of the scary things about fentanyl is that people don’t always know it’s there. Even one exposure can be dangerous. That’s not meant to scare you — it’s meant to help you stay safe.”
Why this works: Clear and factual without being alarmist.

Example 3: Talking About Parties or Peer Pressure

Parent:
“If you’re ever in a situation where someone offers you something and you’re not sure what it is, I want you to know you can always call or text me to get out of there.”

Child:
“Even if it’s late?”

Parent:
“Especially if it’s late. Your safety matters more than rules.”

Why this works: Creates a safety plan, not consequences.

Example 4: If a Child Pushes Back

Child:
“No one I know is doing that.”

Parent:
“I hope that’s true. My job isn’t to assume the worst — it’s to make sure you’re prepared just in case.”

Why this works: Keeps the conversation open.

How Fentanyl Is Bought and Shared Today

Many drugs containing fentanyl are sold through social media and messaging apps.

Common tactics include:

  • Emojis and slang to signal drugs for sale
  • Moving conversations to encrypted apps (Signal, WhatsApp, Telegram)
  • Payment through peer-to-peer apps or cryptocurrency
  • Delivery through mail or local drop-offs

Because sales happen online, parents may not see traditional warning signs.

How Parents Can Help Protect Their Kids

  • Talk openly and often about drug risks
  • Set clear expectations about not taking pills or substances that aren’t prescribed
  • Stay informed about social media and messaging apps
  • Encourage kids to come to you if they see or are offered drugs
  • Learn about naloxone (Narcan) and how to access it

Trusted Resources

HOW TO TALK ABOUT MARIJUANA & THC

A Conversation Guide for Parents and Caregivers

Talking about marijuana and THC can feel confusing, especially as laws and products change. You don’t need to have all the answers. What matters most is creating space for honest, ongoing conversations grounded in listening, trust, and care.

This guide is designed to help parents and caregivers understand marijuana and THC, recognize risks, and feel more confident starting conversations with their child.

What Is Marijuana & THC?

Marijuana contains THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the chemical responsible for its psychoactive effects. THC affects the brain, especially areas related to memory, decision-making, mood, and attention.

Because the adolescent brain is still developing, THC exposure can have stronger and longer-lasting effects on teens than on adults.

Why Marijuana & THC Can Be Risky for Young People

THC can interfere with brain development and may increase the risk of anxiety, depression, and problems with focus and learning. Today’s marijuana products often contain much higher levels of THC than in the past.

Edibles and other products may look harmless but can deliver unpredictable doses.

How Kids Are Being Exposed to Marijuana & THC

THC is available in many forms, including:

  • Vapes and cartridges
  • Gummies, chocolates, and baked goods
  • Drinks or candy that look like everyday snacks
  • Concentrates (“dabs,” oils, waxes)

Some products are intentionally packaged to resemble familiar brands, making it harder to recognize risk.

Signs of Marijuana or THC Use

Signs may include:

Physical signs

  • Red or glassy eyes
  • Increased appetite
  • Fatigue or lack of motivation
  • Changes in coordination

Behavioral signs

  • Mood swings or irritability
  • Declining school performance
  • Loss of interest in activities
  • Increased secrecy or changes in friend groups

One sign alone doesn’t indicate use. Patterns and changes over time matter most.

How to Start the Conversation

Effective conversations focus on curiosity, not confrontation.

Helpful principles:

  • Ask open-ended questions
  • Listen without judgment
  • Avoid exaggeration or scare tactics
  • Keep the focus on health and safety

What These Conversations Can Sound Like

These are examples — not scripts. Use language that feels natural to you.

Example 1: Opening the Topic

Parent:
“Marijuana seems to come up a lot more than when I was growing up. What do kids your age think about it?”

Example 2: Talking About Edibles

Parent:
“I didn’t realize some THC products look like regular candy or snacks. Have you ever seen that?”

Why this works: Raises awareness without accusation.

Example 3: If a Child Minimizes Risk

Child:
“It’s not a big deal — it’s legal.”

Parent:
“Some things are legal for adults but still risky for growing brains. That’s why I wanted to talk.”

Example 4: Keeping the Door Open

Parent:
“If you ever feel pressured or unsure, you can always come to me. We’ll figure it out together.”

How Parents Can Help Protect Their Kids

  • Talk early about THC and brain development
  • Set clear expectations
  • Learn what products look like today
  • Encourage kids to ask questions
  • Keep conversations ongoing

Trusted Resources

 

How to Talk About Vaping

A conversation guide for parents and caregivers

Talking with your child about vaping doesn’t require a perfect script or a single “big talk.” What matters most is creating space for honest, ongoing conversations grounded in listening, trust, and care.

This guide is designed to help parents and caregivers understand vaping, recognize warning signs, and start meaningful conversations that support healthy decision-making.

Why This Conversation Matters

Vaping is common, highly visible, and often misunderstood. Many products are designed to look harmless, smell pleasant, or blend into everyday items — making it harder for parents to recognize use or risk.

Nicotine exposure during adolescence can affect brain development, increase anxiety and mood issues, and raise the risk of addiction later in life. Even when vaping doesn’t seem like an immediate problem, early conversations can reduce risk and keep communication open.

What This Guide Will Help You Do

This guide will help you:

  • Recognize signs that a child may be vaping
  • Learn how vaping products are marketed and accessed by youth
  • Start calm, effective conversations without blame or fear
  • Know where to find trusted, science-based information and support

What Is Vaping?

Vaping involves inhaling aerosol (often called “vapor”) produced by an electronic cigarette or similar device. These devices typically contain nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals.

Many vaping products are small, discreet, and easy to conceal — often resembling USB drives, pens, or everyday objects.

Effects of Vaping on Young People

Vaping can affect physical health, mental health, and behavior.

Potential effects include:

  • Nicotine addiction (which can develop quickly)
  • Changes in attention, memory, and mood
  • Increased anxiety or irritability
  • Sleep disruption
  • Lung irritation and breathing problems
  • Increased risk of transitioning to cigarette smoking

Because the adolescent brain is still developing, nicotine exposure can have longer-lasting impacts than it does for adults.

Signs a Child May Be Vaping

Signs are not always obvious. Possible indicators include:

  • Sweet or unusual odors on clothing or breath
  • Increased secrecy or withdrawal
  • Changes in mood, irritability, or anxiety
  • Frequent thirst or nosebleeds
  • Declining school performance
  • USB-like devices, pods, chargers, or unfamiliar packaging

One sign alone does not mean vaping is occurring, but patterns matter.

Products That May Look “Normal”

Many vaping products are designed to blend in:

  • USB-style devices
  • Pens or highlighters
  • Small pods or cartridges
  • Disposable devices resembling everyday electronics
  • Flavored products that smell like candy or fruit

Because designs change frequently, staying curious and asking questions can be more effective than relying on recognition alone.

How Kids Are Accessing Vaping Products

Youth may obtain vaping products through:

  • Friends or older peers
  • Social media marketplaces
  • Online retailers that bypass age verification
  • School environments
  • Sharing devices at parties or social gatherings

Flavored products and targeted marketing can make vaping appear low-risk or socially acceptable.

Conversation Principles That Work

  1. Lead with curiosity, not conclusions
  2. Expect more than one conversation
  3. Stay calm — even when you feel worried
  4. Listen more than you talk
  5. Keep your child’s age and experience in mind

The goal is understanding and trust — not winning the conversation.

Conversation Starters About Vaping

General check-ins

  • “What have you heard about vaping?”
  • “Do kids talk about it at school?”

Peer and social context

  • “How does vaping show up around your friends?”
  • “Do people feel pressure to try it?”

If you’re concerned

  • “I want to check in because I care about your health.”
  • “Can you help me understand what you’re seeing?”

If your child opens up

  • “I’m glad you told me.”
  • “Tell me more about that.”

Real conversation examples: vaping

Example 1: Opening the Door (No Assumptions)

Parent:
“I’ve been hearing a lot about vaping lately, and I realized I don’t actually know what kids are seeing at school. What’s it like for you?”

Child:
“People talk about it, but not everyone does it.”

Parent:
“That makes sense. I’m not here to lecture — I just want to understand what’s around you.”

Why this works:
Curiosity first. No accusation. No agenda.

Example 2: Talking About Risk Without Fear

Parent:
“I read that nicotine can affect how the brain handles stress and anxiety — especially while it’s still developing. That surprised me. Have you heard anything like that?”

Child:
“Not really. People just think it’s not a big deal.”

Parent:
“That’s what worries me a little — not because I think you’d make a bad choice, but because I know how confusing mixed messages can be.”

Why this works:
Focuses on concern, not control.

Example 3: If You’re Concerned About Possible Use

Parent:
“I want to check in about something. I’ve noticed you’ve seemed more stressed lately, and I just want to make sure vaping isn’t part of that. You’re not in trouble — I care about your health.”

Child:
“…I tried it once.”

Parent:
“Thank you for telling me. That couldn’t have been easy. Can you help me understand what made you curious?”

Why this works:
Acknowledges honesty and keeps the conversation going.

Example 4: Keeping the Conversation Open

Parent:
“We don’t have to figure everything out today. I just want you to know you can always talk to me — even if you think I won’t like what you say.”

Why this works:
Removes pressure and reinforces trust.

If the Conversation Doesn’t Go as Planned

Not every conversation will go smoothly.

  • If your child shuts down, revisit later
  • If emotions run high, pause and return to the topic
  • If your child admits to vaping, listen first and avoid immediate consequences

Progress often happens over time.

When to Get Additional Support

If vaping is affecting your child’s health, mood, or school performance, consider reaching out to:

  • A healthcare provider
  • A school counselor
  • A trusted community or prevention program

Seeking support is a sign of care, not failure.

Trusted Resources

Ohio-Specific

Ohio Department of Health – Tobacco Use Prevention & Cessation
https://odh.ohio.gov/know-our-programs/tobacco-use-prevention-and-cessation

National & Federal

CDC – E-Cigarettes & Youth
https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/e-cigarettes/youth.html

CDC – What Parents Need to Know (PDF)
https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/pdfs/osh-e-cigarettes-and-youth-what-parents-need-to-know-508.pdf

CDC – Help Youth Reject or Quit Vaping
https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/e-cigarettes/youth-quitting.html

Surgeon General – Youth Vaping Report
https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/reports-and-publications/youth-vaping/index.html

HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics)
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/tobacco/Pages/Facts-For-Parents-About-E-Cigarettes-Electronic-Nicotine-Delivery-Systems.aspx

FDA Vaping Prevention & Education
https://digitalmedia.hhs.gov/tobacco/educator_hub

Understand what vaping is and why it’s risky for young people

How to Talk About Mental Health

A Conversation Guide for Parents and Caregivers

Talking about mental health can feel delicate — and for many parents, intimidating. You don’t need to be an expert or have the perfect words. What matters most is creating space for honest conversations, listening with care, and helping your child feel supported.

This guide is designed to help parents and caregivers recognize when a child may be struggling, start meaningful conversations, and know where to turn for help.

What We Mean by “Mental Health”

Mental health includes emotional well-being, stress management, relationships, and how we cope with challenges. Everyone experiences ups and downs, especially during adolescence.

Struggling with mental health does not mean something is “wrong.” It means a child may need support — just like they would for a physical health concern.

Why Mental Health Conversations Matter

Adolescence is a time of rapid emotional, social, and physical change. Stress, pressure, and uncertainty can impact how young people feel and behave.

Early, supportive conversations can:

  • Help children feel less alone
  • Reduce stigma and shame
  • Encourage help-seeking behaviors
  • Strengthen trust between parents and children

Talking early and often makes it easier to talk when things feel harder.

Common Signs a Child May Be Struggling

Signs can look different for every child and may change over time.

Emotional or behavioral signs

  • Withdrawal from family or friends
  • Irritability, anger, or mood swings
  • Increased anxiety or worry
  • Loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy

Physical or school-related signs

  • Changes in sleep or appetite
  • Frequent headaches or stomachaches
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Declining school performance

One sign alone doesn’t mean there’s a serious problem. Patterns and changes over time matter most.

How to Start the Conversation

You don’t need a “big talk.” Simple check-ins can open the door.

Helpful principles:

  • Choose a calm, private moment
  • Lead with curiosity, not conclusions
  • Listen more than you talk
  • Validate feelings, even if you don’t fully understand them

Your goal isn’t to fix everything — it’s to let your child know they’re not alone.

What These Conversations Can Sound Like

These are examples — not scripts. Use language that feels natural to you.

Example 1: A Gentle Check-In

Parent:
“I’ve noticed you seem a little quieter lately. How have things been feeling for you?”

Why this works: Observes without accusing.

Example 2: Normalizing Feelings

Parent:
“A lot of people feel overwhelmed sometimes — especially with everything going on. You don’t have to handle it on your own.”

Example 3: If a Child Shrugs or Says “I’m Fine”

Parent:
“Okay. If that ever changes, I want you to know I’m here and ready to listen.”

Why this works: Leaves the door open without pressure.

Example 4: When a Child Shares Something Hard

Parent:
“Thank you for telling me. That took courage. How can I support you right now?”

When and How to Seek Additional Support

If concerns persist or begin to affect your child’s daily life, reaching out for help is a positive step.

Support can come from:

  • School counselors or trusted school staff
  • Healthcare providers
  • Mental health professionals
  • Community or youth support organizations

Asking for help is a sign of strength — for parents and children alike.

Mental Health Resources at Dublin City Schools

Students and families in Dublin have access to school-based mental health supports, including:

  • School counselors
  • School psychologists
  • Social workers
  • Partnerships with community mental health organizations

If you’re concerned about your child, you can contact your school directly to learn more about available resources and next steps.

Press Pause https://www.dublinschools.net/departments/communications/press-pause

Press Pause is a Dublin City Schools initiative focused on helping students manage stress, build emotional awareness, and develop healthy coping strategies. The program encourages students to slow down, reflect, and seek support when they feel overwhelmed.

Trusted Resources

A Final Note for Parents

You don’t have to get this perfect. Showing up, listening, and staying connected matters more than having the “right” words.

Mental health conversations aren’t one-time talks — they’re ongoing

 

Resources & Support

You’re not expected to do this alone.

Trusted local and national resources are available to support families and connect you to help when you need it. Each Conversation Guide includes specific resources for each conversation topic.  Below are some local resources we would like to recognize for their support of the Dublin Wellness Allliance.

Dublin City Schools – Student Wellness

Provides school-based supports focused on student mental health, wellness, and safety, including counseling services, prevention education, and connections to additional resources.
https://www.dublinschools.net/departments/student-services/student-wellness

Press Pause: Finding Balance in a Digital World
Press Pause is a Dublin City Schools initiative designed to help families build healthier relationships with screen time and digital habits. Through short podcast episodes, local educators and community experts share practical guidance on topics such as sleep, stress, social media pressure, and setting healthy boundaries with technology.
https://www.dublinschools.net/departments/communications/press-pause

Dublin ACT Coalition

A community coalition focused on preventing and reducing youth substance use through education, collaboration, and local prevention initiatives that support families and young people.
https://dublinact.org

Kids Mental Health Foundation

Provides free, research-informed tools to help parents and caregivers start conversations with children and teens about mental health and substance use.
https://www.kidsmentalhealthfoundation.org

Nationwide Children’s Hospital

Offers pediatric healthcare services, including mental health support, substance use treatment, and family-centered care for children and adolescents.
https://www.nationwidechildrens.org

Syntero

Provides counseling, prevention, and early-intervention mental health services for children, teens, adults, and families across Central Ohio.
https://www.syntero.org