Kelli Hawkins, SRHD | khawkins@srhd.org | 509.324.1539, c. (509) 994.8968

Helps Parents and Educators Identify and Respond to Risky Behaviors Among Youth

Spokane, Wash. – Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) is hosting Hidden in Plain Sight, an interactive event that helps participants identify and respond to risky behaviors among youth, at Mead High School, 302 W. Hastings Rd. in Spokane, on May 9, 6-8 p.m. Must be age 21 or older to attend.

Participants will walk through a mock teen bedroom and try to identify more than 70 items that could indicate problems or risky behaviors associated with vaping, cannabis, and mental health. Participants will then join a presentation and discussion about the indicators they saw, local youth trends, and tools to foster family conversations.

“Knowing when children and youth are struggling or at risk can feel difficult in our rapidly changing environment,” said Amanda Dugger, Youth Cannabis and Commercial Tobacco Prevention Program coordinator at SRHD. “Our hope is that by sharing how to talk to youth about their risks and struggles, we can equip parents, caregivers, and other adults to help the young people in their lives receive the support and resources they need.”

SRHD has hosted this presentation at other locations in Spokane County in the past. Just last year, the presentation was at multiple locations including Freeman High School, University High School, Westwood Middle School and at the ESD 101 Center.

Dugger explained those events received positive feedback and generated additional interest from other school districts.

“As long as there is interest from our community for this resource, then we will continue to bring it back,” said Dugger, adding that she is already planning for another event in the Spokane area for 2025.

If you have questions about the event, please contact Dugger at 509-324-1618 or by email at adugger@srhd.org.

Hidden In Plain Sight was created in partnership with the Benton Franklin Health District and is now facilitated by Jennifer Dorsett. You can learn more by going to this Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/HIPSTC.

Spokane Regional Health District is a leader and partner in public health by protecting, improving and promoting the health and well-being of all people through evidence-based practices. SRHD is one of 34 local public health agencies serving Washington state’s 39 counties. Visit www.srhd.org for comprehensive, updated information about SRHD and its triumphs in making Spokane a safer and healthier community. Like SRHD on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to receive safety and wellness tips.