Proyecto Hombre is set to launch an online series titled “Connected Families,” featuring two workshops aimed at equipping parents with essential tools for preventing and addressing substance abuse and technology overuse among children and adolescents.
January 10, 2025
The Social Welfare Department, in collaboration with Proyecto Hombre, is organizing this online family cycle as part of its Drug Dependency Prevention Plan. The initiative focuses on identifying risk and protective factors affecting minors and empowering families as key preventive agents.The workshops will clarify the distinctions between use, abuse, and addiction, while also highlighting warning signs related to technology use and debunking myths surrounding addictive substances.
The first workshop,titled “Is Healthy Technology Use in Families Possible?” will take place on January 31,followed by the second workshop,“A Challenge for the Family: Adolescence and Substances,” on February 7. Both sessions will begin at 7:00 PM and require prior registration at bit.ly/sanpedrofamilia25.
Carmen María López, the councilor for the area, emphasized the strong partnership between the city council and Proyecto Hombre in developing various addiction treatment programs. She noted the success of a recent smoking cessation program, which saw 75% of participants achieve abstinence.
Proyecto Hombre has a long-standing history of drug prevention initiatives, working with students, families, educators, and community agents. The Social Welfare Department remains committed to ongoing efforts in addiction prevention and support through its Second Drug Dependency Prevention Plan.
Q&A with Dr. Maria Gonzalez, Addiction Specialist on Proyecto Hombre’s “Connected Families” Initiative
Time.news Editor: Dr.Gonzalez,thank you for joining us today. We’ve recently learned about proyecto Hombre’s upcoming online series, “Connected families,” aimed at equipping parents with essential tools for preventing substance abuse and managing technology overuse among children and adolescents. Can you provide us with an overview of this initiative?
Dr. Maria Gonzalez: Thank you for having me. The “Connected Families” initiative is a timely response too the challenges families face today. In collaboration with the Social Welfare Department, this series includes two workshops designed to empower parents. The first workshop, “Is Healthy Technology Use in Families Possible?” will explore the influence of technology on youth, and the second, “A Challenge for the Family: Adolescence and substances,” will address substance use during formative years. Both aim to clarify the difference between use, abuse, and addiction, which is crucial for early intervention.
Time.news Editor: These workshops are incredibly relevant. Can you elaborate on the focus of these sessions and why they are critically important for today’s parents?
Dr. Maria Gonzalez: absolutely. The workshops will address critical topics, such as recognizing warning signs of technology overuse and substance misuse. Many parents struggle with understanding these issues’ nuances, particularly in a digital age. By clarifying the myths surrounding addiction, we can equip families with knowledge to foster healthier environments. The emphasis on protective factors will empower parents to become proactive in safeguarding their children’s well-being.
Time.news Editor: That sounds valuable. What insights can you share regarding the current state of substance use among minors and the role families play in prevention?
Dr. Maria Gonzalez: Recent studies show rising rates of substance use and technology addiction among adolescents,making educational initiatives like this vital. Families are the frontline defense. By understanding risk factors and fostering open communication, parents can significantly influence their children’s choices. Programs like “Connected Families” help to engage parents in ongoing dialogues about substance use, creating a supportive environment for adolescents.
Time.news Editor: It’s encouraging to see a strong collaboration like the one between Proyecto Hombre and the Social Welfare Department, particularly regarding the success of previous programs. How does this partnership enhance the impact of the initiative?
Dr. Maria Gonzalez: The partnership is crucial because it combines expertise in addiction treatment with community resources. Effective prevention requires a holistic approach, engaging not just parents but also educators and community members. By leveraging the success of past initiatives, such as the smoking cessation program that achieved a remarkable 75% abstinence rate, we can build on proven strategies to address substance use and technology addiction more effectively.
Time.news Editor: As we highlight “connected Families,” what practical advice would you offer to parents who are concerned about their children’s substance use or technology habits?
Dr. Maria Gonzalez: I recommend that parents start by educating themselves about healthy technology use and the signs of substance abuse. Open conversations between parents and children are essential.Encourage honest discussions about experiences, peer pressure, and expectations.Parents should also model healthy behaviors and set boundaries around technology use while maintaining a supportive dialog. Lastly, I encourage attendance at these workshops to gain deeper insights and connect with other families facing similar challenges.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr.Gonzalez, for your insights on this critically important initiative. The “Connected families” workshops promise to provide necessary resources and support for parents.
Dr. Maria Gonzalez: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss such an essential topic. Engaging in open dialogue and educating ourselves as parents will undoubtedly lead to healthier families and communities. I look forward to the positive impact of “Connected Families.”
For more data on the workshops and to register, visit bit.ly/sanpedrofamilia25.