Counselor's Corner
October Newsletter
Recognizing Addiction Awareness Month
Warning Signs of Teen Substance Use
By Raheem Tyus, CDCA & Julia Anderson, CDCA
New Directions SUD Counselors
In light of Addiction Awareness Month, it is important to be knowledgeable about common signs exhibited by teenagers that often get ignored or passed off as normal teen behavior. Though these signs do not guarantee substance use, they are indicators that something may be going on that needs attention.
If you find your loved one displaying any of the below signs, please don’t ignore them! Speak to them about it, reach out to the school guidance department expressing your concerns and a referral can be made to speak with the New Directions team.
1. Increased isolation: A noticeable difference in the time your teen spends alone versus with friends/family/peers – especially if they were once very engaged.
2. Increased irritability/volatility: An increase in aggressiveness with parents or siblings and seemingly overreacting to small things.
3. Drastic weight loss: A significant amount of weight loss in a short period of time.
4. Changes in friend group: A change in the type of people your teen spends time with or keeping their friends away from family (hiding who they’re hanging out with).
5. Decreased interest or involvement in healthy hobbies/activities: An abrupt stop in participating in a hobby they were once passionate about, skipping class, dropping out of clubs or sports.
Again, these signs are not absolute indicators of substance use, but are commonly overlooked behaviors by friends and families of youth indulging in substance use. Don’t be afraid to reach out – we are here for you!
October 12th PSAT/NMSQT & PSAT 8/9
Sophomores-Independently, students can arrange a career shadowing experience or they can work on service learning hours for the day.
Juniors-You will be taking the PSAT/NMSQT on October 12th. This will be a paper/pencil test, so please bring pencils and an approved calculator. You will find out your room assignment on the morning of the test. Lists will be posted in the Rotunda. You will report to your room by 7:50am.
Seniors-There will be a College Essay & Application Workshop on October 12th from 8-11:30 in the Media Center. No appointment necessary! You will be able to work with the English teachers on revising your essay. Mrs. Litten and Miss. Caroscio will also be available to assist with college applications at that time.
AP Testing
Need Service Hours?
Let's Talk About It: Drugs & Alcohol
New Directions staff will be working at Westlake High School on Tuesdays. We're offering group sessions for students who want to learn more about substance use, addiction, life skills, and other topics you want to discuss. We want to hear from you!
If you are interested in signing-up for this group, complete this form.
CollegeNow
Westlake High School is proud to announce our new partnership with CollegeNow of Greater Cleveland. Jo Levine will be on site offering students and families the services listed. This will be a vital resource in addition to our four School Counselors.
Senior parents who need help completing the FAFSA can click here to schedule a one on one appt with Jo Levine.
View the flyer to see a list of the services that they will be providing.
Important Dates
- Oct 7th- Homecoming Parade at 5pm followed by the Homecoming Game
- Oct 8th- Homecoming Dance 7-11pm
- Oct 11th- Conferences 3:30-7pm
- Oct 12th- PSAT/NMSQT Juniors and Freshmen report
- Oct 12th- College Application Workshop
- Oct 12th- Financial Aid Night 7pm
- Oct 14th- No School NEOEA Day
- Oct 18th- Senior Picture Day
- Oct 19th- Conferences 3:30- 7pm
- Oct 20th- National Merit Recognition Breakfast
- Oct 20th- Fall Instrumental Concert 7pm
- Oct 24th- Fall Chorale Concert 7pm
- Oct 26th- NHS Inductions 7:15am
- Oct 26th- Halloween Fun Night 5:30-7:30pm
- Oct 28th- End of 1st Quarter
- Oct 31st- No School
- Nov 1st- Early Action/Early Decision deadline!