This free workshop will explore the psychological aspects and gambling-like mechanics common to daily fantasy sports contests while looking at emerging trends and future considerations in sports gambling. This webinar is coordinated by the Region 5 Problem Gambling Awareness Team. Register Now.

While most video gaming is harmless and fun, there is growing concern in higher education about the risks of gaming disorder leading to other mental health issues, declining academic performance, risked financial aid eligibility, and poorer physical health. In this workshop, we'll uncover key trends and data around gaming and other health intersections in young adults, discuss contributing risk and protective factors, and have an interactive discussion on methods of supports, including treatment resources in Connecticut. Register now.

DEA partnered with the U.S. Department of Education to update this publication that was last revised in 2012. This 40-page booklet offers information to help parents and other caregivers raise drug-free children. The guide includes an overview of substance use among youth; descriptions of substances young people may use; a look at risk factors that may make kids more vulnerable to trying and using drugs, and protective factors to offset those risks; suggestions for how to talk to children about drugs, regardless of their age; and tips on what to do if you suspect your child is using alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs. Download the guide.

A big step forward to stop young people from smoking. The Public Health Committee passed legislation on Friday to ban all flavored tobacco, including e-cigarettes and vaping products.

There are 15,000 different flavors like gummy bear, cotton candy and s’mores. This legislation would ban these flavors and the very popular and addictive menthol. Despite education and warnings, young people continue to smoke, and vaping is increasingly popular. The smoking rate among Connecticut high school students is 2.7 percent, but the number of those using e-cigarettes is 27 percent.

While the tobacco industry has spent millions every year on advertising, Connecticut hasn’t spent any money towards helping people quit or prevent kids from starting. Some feel this legislation could help.

The NASW Social Justice Report Implications of Coronavirus (COVID-19) for America’s Vulnerable and Marginalized Populations explains how the pandemic could devastate some of the nation’s most vulnerable populations, including children, older adults, African Americans, people who are low income, immigrants and prison inmates.

Here are other resources and information for social workers who are assisting people in special populations during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

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