EDUMAP

Project significance

The issue of psychoactive substance use is escalating globally. Of particular concern is the growing prevalence of substance use among children and young people, which poses a significant threat to mental health. This concern was highlighted through the implementation of the international EDU MAP project. The project team conducted extensive research and developed a comprehensive guide offering an educational approach to understanding psychoactive substance use, misuse, and addiction - with a strong emphasis on prevention.

This free, multilingual resource is designed for teachers, families, youth workers, volunteers, and NGO professionals. It is available in Lithuanian, Greek, Turkish, Finnish, German (Austria), and Slovenian. Across Europe, alcohol remains the most commonly used psychoactive susbtance among 15-16 year-olds. Early substance use is linked to lower academic performance, increased social exclusion, and a doubled risk of developing psychosis.

Project goals:

1. Improve teachers' knowledge of youth substance misuse, the distinctions between misuse and addiction, and how to identify warning signs using provided methodologies, guidelines, and tools.

2. Equip school staff with educational materials, practical tools, and guidance to effectively respond to substance use issues.

3. Enhance understanding of prevention strategies related to substance use and addiction.

4. Deepen knowledge of the personal, peer, family, and societal consequences of substance misuse and addiction by creating a guide tailored for school communities. This guide also outlines the social symptoms of substance misuse.

5. Establish an international network of professionals working in the field of substance misuse prevention and intervention.

More information and materials are available at: http://edu-map.eu/

Project duration: 28 February, 2022 - 27 February, 2024

Project budget: €238,121

Project coordinator: Všį Žmogiškųjų išteklių stebėsenos ir plėtros biuras