Even pre-pandemic, the pressures and challenges of a complex, sometimes overwhelming world placed teens and young adults at risk for serious behavioral health problems such as substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and suicide.  The prolonged stress and social isolation from COVID-19 have intensified those risks. Suicide attempts, already at high rates, have spiked as have drug overdoses.  According to the Centers for Disease Control, mental health-related emergency department visits for teens 12-17 have increased 31%.

In an effort to address these critical issues facing our community in Baltimore, Jewish Community Services is committed to supporting prevention and wellness programs. These programs are instrumental in empowering teens, young adults, and adults in navigating life challenges using healthy strategies, to make choices that will enhance their personal, emotional, and social well-being, and to recognize and take action when someone close to them is struggling.

Out of Stigma's Shadow: A Conversation with Nic Sheff will take place via a virtual platform on Wednesday, May 5th at 7:00 p.m. As you will learn, Nic's heartbreaking and inspiring struggle with substance use disorder is told in the major motion picture, "Beautiful Boy."  Nic will share his personal, unglamorized story of substance abuse, which began when he was a teen, its impact on those who love him, and his recovery journey. There is no cost to attend and no solicitation of funds.

Please be part of the solution. Please click this link to register for this program: Click here