SIDHI: Tatak UPD NSTP Common Module | Drug Education | Asst. Prof. Francis Grace Duka-Pante

Summary

In this informative video, Francis Grace H. Ducapante, an assistant professor in health education, shares insights on substance use prevention. Drawing from personal experiences and professional expertise, she emphasizes the importance of evidence-based prevention strategies that focus on wellness rather than fear. Ducapante discusses the critical role NSTP students can play in advocacy and community engagement, promoting a drug-free lifestyle. She highlights the necessity of understanding substance use through the lens of prevention science and encourages young people to become proactive role models, contribute to legislative efforts, and engage in meaningful discussions about drug use in their communities.

Takeaways

• 😀 Francis Grace H. Ducapante emphasizes the importance of substance use prevention and the role of education in combating drug abuse.
• 🧑‍🏫 The speaker has extensive experience, serving as an assistant professor and director of a training center focused on preventive drug education since 2012.
• 💔 Personal experiences, such as witnessing a loved one suffer due to tobacco use, can motivate individuals to become advocates for health and prevention.
• 📊 Evidence-based prevention programs have proven effective, with a cost-saving ratio of 1:10 for investments in youth prevention initiatives.
• 🏫 Effective prevention strategies should utilize various settings, including families, schools, and communities, to convey the message.
• 🚫 Scare tactics and negative messaging are ineffective; prevention should focus on promoting wellness and positive choices.
• 🧪 Prevention science is an emerging field that combines insights from multiple disciplines to develop strategies that enhance protective factors and reduce risks.
• 🤝 Students have the power to be role models and advocates for a drug-free lifestyle, influencing their peers positively.
• 🗳️ Advocacy efforts, such as drafting legislative petitions and creating youth anti-drug groups, can lead to meaningful changes in drug policy.
• 📢 Communication through social media and community involvement is essential for spreading awareness and preventing substance use.

Q & A

Who is the presenter of the video and what is their professional background?

The presenter is Francis Grace H. Ducapante, an assistant professor in health education at UP De Liman College of Education. They have been serving as the Director of the Ashan Training Center for Preventive Drug Education since 2012.

What personal experience motivated the presenter to advocate for substance use prevention?

The presenter witnessed their uncle suffer from emphysema due to heavy smoking, which ultimately led to his death at a young age. This experience motivated them to become an advocate for health and substance use prevention.

What is the significance of the international standards on drug use prevention published in 2013?

The international standards summarize evidence-based prevention programs and demonstrate that drug prevention is effective and cost-efficient, showing that every dollar spent can save up to ten dollars in treatment and services.

What are the key principles of evidence-based prevention highlighted in the video?

Key principles include using various settings (family, school, workplace, community), delivering prevention messages positively, employing interactive strategies, and acknowledging the developmental nature of substance use.

What is 'prevention science' and why is it important?

Prevention science is an emerging field focused on developing evidence-based strategies to reduce risk factors and enhance protective factors. It is important because it informs effective interventions that improve health and well-being.

What are some common misconceptions about substance use discussions in the Philippines?

Many parents feel uncomfortable discussing substance use, leading to misconceptions and the use of outdated strategies that can cause harm, such as overwhelming young people with information that may increase curiosity.

How can NSTP students contribute to substance use prevention?

NSTP students can be good role models, promote a healthy lifestyle, organize advocacy efforts, and educate peers about the dangers of substance abuse, while also challenging misconceptions and stigma.

What role do social and environmental factors play in substance use?

Substance use is influenced by a combination of individual choices and social forces, emphasizing the need for a multifaceted approach to prevention that considers both personal and environmental factors.

What strategies does the presenter suggest for effectively delivering prevention messages?

Strategies include creating a safe environment for discussion, using value-based activities, role plays, decision stories, and community service learning to engage students in critical thinking about substance use.

What is the overarching message of the presentation regarding substance use prevention?

The presentation emphasizes that collective efforts, informed discussions, and personal commitment can inspire healthier communities and improve the quality of life by preventing substance use.