FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mentor, Ohio – The Lake County ADAMHS Board is bringing an innovative, high-energy prevention program to schools across the county, 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 are participating in interactive assemblies that combine live hosting, multimedia, and real-time feedback to promote smart decision-making and healthy behaviors. The initiative is funded through Ohio’s State Opioid and Stimulant Response Grant (S.O.S. 4.0).

The program 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
• The importance of trusted adults and support systems
• 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 a Kimberly Fraser, Executive Director for the ADAMHS Board. “We want every student to know that their mental health matters and that help is always available.”

The presentations 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 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, 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 health care, and youth mentoring programs.

For more information about prevention services or to access support, please visit the Lake County ADAMHS Board website at HelpThatWOrks.us or call their Compass Line for guidance at 440-350-2000.