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Breaking the Stigma: Substance Use and Society

Lesson Plan

Breaking the Stigma: Substance Use and Society

Understand societal attitudes towards substance use

In this lesson, students will explore societal attitudes towards substance use and the impact of stigma on individuals seeking help. Through role-playing scenarios, students will develop empathy and reflect on their own perceptions. This lesson is important as it encourages critical thinking and empathy, helping students to understand the complexities of substance use and the barriers to seeking help.

Audience

10th-11th Grade Students

Time

1 hour

Approach

Understand societal attitudes towards substance use

Materials

Discussion Questions, Role-Playing Scenarios, Reflection Worksheet, and Pens and Paper

Step 1

Introduction

10 mins

  • Begin with a brief discussion on what stigma means and how it can affect individuals.
  • Ask students to share any examples they know of where stigma has impacted someone's life.

Step 2

Discussion on Societal Attitudes

15 mins

  • Use the provided discussion questions to guide a conversation about societal attitudes towards substance use.
  • Encourage students to think about how these attitudes are formed and perpetuated.

Step 3

Role-Playing Scenarios

20 mins

  • Divide students into small groups and assign each group a role-playing scenario.
  • Allow students time to prepare and then present their scenarios to the class.
  • After each presentation, facilitate a discussion on the emotions and thoughts experienced during the role-play.

Step 4

Reflection

10 mins

  • Distribute the reflection worksheet and ask students to complete it individually.
  • Encourage them to think about how their perceptions may have changed and what they learned from the role-playing activity.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

  • Conclude with a brief discussion on the importance of empathy and understanding in addressing stigma.
  • Encourage students to continue reflecting on these topics beyond the classroom.
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Discussion

Discussion Questions

A set of questions to guide a discussion on societal attitudes towards substance use and stigma.

What are some common stereotypes about people who use substances?

Encourage students to think critically about where these stereotypes come from and how they affect individuals.







How does stigma impact individuals seeking help for substance use?

Discuss the barriers that stigma creates and how it can prevent people from accessing necessary support.







Can you think of any ways to reduce stigma around substance use?

Encourage students to brainstorm ideas and consider the role of education and awareness.







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Worksheet

Role-Playing Scenarios

Printable cards with different scenarios for students to role-play, aimed at fostering empathy and understanding.




Scenario 1: A teenager is afraid to seek help for their substance use because they fear being judged by their peers.







Scenario 2: A parent struggles with understanding their child's substance use and feels ashamed to talk about it.







Scenario 3: A teacher notices a student showing signs of substance use but is unsure how to approach the situation.




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Worksheet

Reflection Worksheet

A worksheet for students to reflect on their learning and personal growth during the lesson.

What did you learn about societal attitudes towards substance use?








How did the role-playing activity change your perspective?








What actions can you take to help reduce stigma in your community?








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