Red Ribbon week (October 20-22) is a chance for our school community to bring awareness to alcohol and drug prevention. This year, we are focusing again on the connection between substance abuse and mental health. Mental and Behavioral health play a big role in substance abuse.  Many people, adults, and young adults, who are addicted to drugs or alcohol may also be diagnosed with other mental illnesses, including depression and anxiety. Some people may develop mental health problems associated with drug and alcohol use, while others take drugs in order to alleviate the symptoms of mental illness. Helping children develop positive mental health strategies is one way we can help them stay drug free, especially as they transition to middle and high school. Stay tuned for more information and suggestions about how to talk to your children about both mental health and drug use.