Why SEL?

What is SEL?

Social emotional learning (SEL) has become an increasingly important aspect of education in recent years, and for good reason. SEL refers to the process of developing social and emotional competencies that are essential for success in school and in life. SEL core competencies includes things like self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and responsible decision making.

SEL has a number of positive outcomes for students. Research has shown that students who participate in SEL programs (like those designed by the YESS Institute) have better academic outcomes, higher levels of well-being, and stronger relationships with their peers and teachers.

Why SEL for youth drug awareness and education?

SEL is particularly important is in efforts to improve drug awareness and education for middle and high school students. These age groups are at a crucial stage of development because the human brain is still developing until around age 25. This means that they are more susceptible to the effects of drugs and alcohol, and also more likely to engage in risky behavior.

Through SEL, students can learn how to recognize and regulate their emotions, make responsible decisions, and build positive relationships. These skills can help them resist peer pressure to use drugs and alcohol, and also make informed decisions if they do encounter these substances.

How can SEL be incorporated into drug awareness & education programs?

There are a number of ways that SEL can be incorporated into drug awareness and education programs. For example, students can be taught to identify the emotions that lead them to use drugs, and to develop healthier coping strategies. They can also practice confidently saying "no" to peer pressure and making responsible decisions in different scenarios.

It's important to note that SEL is not a one-time lesson or program, but a continuous process that should be integrated into the school curriculum and culture. This can include things like mindfulness practices, restorative justice circles, and peer mentorship programs.

SEL benefits our community

Beyond its positive impact on students, SEL also benefits the broader community. By promoting SEL and responsible decision making, we can reduce the negative impact of drugs and alcohol on families, schools, and society as a whole.

It's important for parents and educators to work together to support SEL and drug education for middle and high school students. This can involve things like providing access to counseling and mental health resources, incorporating SEL into the curriculum, and creating a supportive and positive school and home culture.

Take away

By teaching students to regulate their emotions, make responsible decisions, and build positive relationships, we can help them resist peer pressure and make informed choices about drugs and alcohol. This not only benefits students, but also the broader community. Let's work together to support SEL and drug education in our schools! 

Check out Healthy Lifestyles Cannabis Awareness & Education course opportunities today!