Youth-Led Methamphetamine Prevention Campaign Takes Center Stage in Garrett County

Garrett County is taking a proactive approach to combat methamphetamine misuse, the leading drug concern in the area. With alarming effects on mental health and overall well-being, methamphetamine misuse has become a critical focus for prevention efforts spearheaded by the Garrett County Health Department.

Shannon Sexton, a program coordinator at the Health Department, has been collaborating with middle and high school students to design and deliver a methamphetamine prevention campaign. These students, part of the Youth in Action (YIA) and Play Hard Live Healthy (PHLH) Influencers programs, are leading the charge to spread awareness about the dangers of methamphetamine misuse.

The PHLH Influencers have focused their efforts on creating messaging that resonates with their peers. Highlighting the long-term mental health impacts of methamphetamine misuse, the group developed content for a billboard and movie slide to be displayed in the county. Their goal is to encourage young people to think critically about the consequences of drug use and prioritize their mental well-being.

Northern High School’s YIA group contributed by creating morning announcements that will be played in all Garrett County schools, delivering prevention messages directly to students. Southern High School’s YIA group designed a poster presentation to be shared on social media and displayed on media monitors throughout the county. Additionally, the PHLH Influencers organized a game with methamphetamine prevention messaging for attendees at a Northern High School basketball game, ensuring the message reaches the broader community.

Southern High School’s YIA team designed a pledge banner for each high school to display. During lunch periods and sporting events, the Influencers talk with their classmates and encourage them to sign the banner, promising to stay drug-free.

Northern Middle School’s YIA group took a theatrical approach, preparing a skit to be performed during the school’s next pep rally. This engaging performance is expected to help students learn in a fun and memorable way the importance of avoiding methamphetamine misuse.

Prevention efforts were extended to younger audiences by partnering with the Garrett County Library’s Summer Reading program in September. Elementary school-aged children participated in a drug prevention game and activity designed to instill healthy choices from an early age. That same month, a youth pickleball clinic emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.  There are plans for another clinic in March.

In October, a group of youth marched in the Autumn Glory Fireman’s Parade, chanting a drug-free song and carrying posters to spread awareness throughout the community. High school health classes also became a platform for creativity, as students designed drug-free posters. These designs will be voted on and the winning poster will be printed on prescription RX bags used in the county, extending the message to families.

Garrett County’s approach to methamphetamine prevention demonstrates a comprehensive, community-driven strategy. By empowering youth to take the lead, leveraging creative outlets, and involving multiple community entities, the program aims to reduce methamphetamine misuse and its devastating effects on mental health.

Garrett County is building a united front to address its most pressing drug issue and ensure a healthier future for its residents through the combined efforts of the Health Department, schools, libraries, and community events. For more information about this program call the Health Department at 301-334-7730.