Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment
What is an SBIRT?
SBIRT stands for Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment. It is an evidence-based way to quickly assess a person’s level of substance use, and to identify the appropriate level of care. The SBIRT Model is designed as a tool for early detection of substance misuse and as a way to prevent a higher level of use. SBIRT is recommended by the CDC, American Academy of Pediatrics and SAMHSA as an effective approach for adolescents. When combined with school-wide prevention strategies, SBIRT prevents disease, injury, and other consequences of substance use in adolescents.
SBIRT in Denver Public Schools
Denver Public Schools Substance Use Prevention Program utilizes the SBIRT Teen Intervene program to provide education, support and guidance for teens using substances and their parents.Through Teen Intervene, teenagers who have experienced mild to moderate problems associated with alcohol or drug use work one-to-one with a school mental health professional (social worker, psychologist or counselor) for three sessions to identify and, ultimately, change their choices and behaviors. The final session includes both the teen and parent to connect the family to additional resources and support
Talking with Youth to Encourage Healthy Behavior
Healthy Kids Colorado data shows us that most teens are not using substances (over 75%). Prevention efforts are effective, and talking with youth about the risks of substance use and encouraging healthy ways to cope with big emotions is important. Motivational Interviewing is an effective approach to having conversations about substance use and can serve as a prevention strategy for youth who are not currently using substances. A goal is to give youth information about the importance of their developing brain and the risk that substances can pose to their health. One Degree | Shift the Influence is a training simulator that increases trusted adults’ skills to have meaningful conversations with adolescents. Below are some additional resources and talking points to have these conversations with youth:
Additional Resources