Educator Involvement After Overdose Can Be Key To Academic Success
We know teachers do so much more than just teach. This is especially true as schools begin to focus on rehabilitating – as opposed to punishing – teens who suffer a nonfatal overdose. Schools have become an important part of the rehabilitation process.
How can our teachers support these students and help get them on a healthier, happier path?
Photo by Sam Balye
Educator Involvement After Overdose Can Be Key To Academic Success
We know teachers do so much more than just teach. This is especially true as schools begin to focus on rehabilitating – as opposed to punishing – teens who suffer a nonfatal overdose. Schools have become an important part of the rehabilitation process.
How can our teachers support these students and help get them on a healthier, happier path?
Photo by Sam Balye
1 — ASK FOR INVOLVEMENT
It may require getting a release signed or overcoming bureaucratic hurdles, but if possible, try to become an active member of your student’s support team. This may mean checking in with their counselor, helping parents navigate the reality of their teen’s battle with addiction, or checking in yourself with school administrators.
2 — SET THE STUDENT UP FOR SUCCESS
Many teens who survive nonfatal overdoses have some degree of brain damage, even if they do not have hypoxia. This could be anything from a concussion from a fall when the overdose occurred to minor damage due to some oxygen deprivation. Make sure you are aware of whether the student needs a reduced workload, breaks during long sessions, or other support. This doesn’t have to be a grand, sweeping gesture. It can be as simple
3 — STAY (GENTLY) VIGILANT
Monitoring a student closely as a teacher can be invaluable for school counselors and administrators. Look for patterns in difficulties concentrating or completing assignments – these could be a sign of post-concussion syndrome, not disengagement. Track attendance, even if informally. Notify counselors, parents, guardians or others in a student’s support network if you see any sudden changes in behavior.
If you are concerned a student may be exhibiting signs of brain injury stemming from a nonfatal overdose, contact us at 1•888•500•9165 or info@biaaz.org. We’re here to help!
ABOUT BRAIN INJURY ASSOCIATION OF ARIZONA
The Brain Injury Association of Arizona (BIAAZ) is the only statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of adults and children with all types of brain injuries through prevention, advocacy, awareness and education. BIAAZ also houses the Arizona Brain Health Resource Center, a collection of educational information and neuro-specific resources for brain injury survivors, caregivers, family members and professionals.
What began in 1983 as a grassroots effort has grown into a strong statewide presence, providing valuable life-long resources and community support for individuals with all types of brain trauma at no charge.