A program to raise awareness about drug use among teenagers

The social educator and the nurse meet to review today's outing in which the young people admitted, who participate voluntarily after a proposal from the technical team, will be able to share their knowledge with students from the different educational centers we visit.

Iván and Raquel help Sara and Abdel (fictitious names) prepare their talk and presentation at the school. This empowers them to face life's challenges and become more aware of their own abilities and skills, enabling them to develop a new vision and path for their future.

Today, the talk is at the Sagrat Cor school in Sarrià, where they will address high school students. Despite their nerves about public speaking, Sara and Abdel are eager to spend some time with these boys and girls and share what they've learned through their own experiences.

Sara begins her talk by introducing herself and showing a video about addiction in general, before moving on to the risks associated with substance use. This session touches on important topics such as the effects on her life. She explains her beginnings, the impact on her family, the losses involved, and the consequences suffered as a result of these problems. The students listen attentively, creating an intimate atmosphere where young people with mental health issues and addictions share their firsthand experiences. A relaxed atmosphere develops, allowing for questions to be answered and myths about addiction and mental health problems to be debunked. In approximately an hour and a half, the aim is to raise awareness about the existing risks and the importance of being aware of them. The talk emphasizes responsibility when making decisions and the need to address this topic openly and without taboos, as it profoundly affects this vulnerable stage of life.

Once the talk is over, it's time for a drink and to reflect on the session. For the team of professionals at Els Til·lers, the most interesting thing is observing how these boys and girls feel proud of the contribution they make to their peer group, feeling that they can improve our society.

During the journey back to the unit, both the staff and the children continue to discuss their impressions and what aspects can be improved for the next talk (expressiveness, language, how certain questions are approached, etc.). They are now ready to face the next challenge.