The program has been delivered into schools, communities and sporting clubs across Tasmania since 2015

“Youth are particularly vulnerable to alcohol and drugs and are placing themselves at risk when using,” said the executive director of Teen Challenge Tasmania Tanya Cavanagh.

“Developmentally, they are just trying to find their identity and their place in the world. For some, drug and alcohol use connects them into a group and for others, it masks pain.”

Ms Cavanagh said many young people who involve themselves in alcohol and drugs did not understand the impact upon their physical and mental wellbeing.

“That’s why it’s so important to give them the facts, current evidence, causation issues and real life journeys. It provides a foundational context for their future choices in this area,” she said.

Graduates from the Teen Challenge share their personal stories of addiction with the students, in a peer teaching peer model that Ms Cavanagh said is powerful and impactful.

“We have had kids come up after the seminars in tears seeking help, as they recognise where they are right now and don’t want to take that same path,” she said.

“We connect them with services within the school and community, aligning them with the help they so desperately need, right now.”