Signs of Substance Use Disorders Among Youth

Presented by Kristy Aristy, PhD, LCSW, MS, CASAC-G, FDC, NCTTPS, Adjunct Instructor, Yeshiva University Wurzweiler School of Social Work; and Kimberly Moore, PhD, LCSW, MA, MAC, CASAC, ADS, Faculty, Yeshiva University Wurzweiler School of Social Work

Sponsored by Yeshiva University

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Substance Use Disorders (SUD) among youth present significant learning and behavioral challenges, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of their signs, symptoms, and the substances involved. This edWebinar highlights key aspects of SUD in young populations, focusing on various commonly abused substances including cannabis, alcohol, vaping products, fentanyl, opioids, benzodiazepines, hallucinogens, and others. Each substance is associated with distinct physical, behavioral, and psychological symptoms that signal potential abuse and addiction.

Common reasons for substance use among youth include peer pressure, stress relief, curiosity, and escapism. Recognizing these motivations is crucial for effective prevention and intervention strategies.

In this edWebinar you learn about multiple resources available to you at the federal level, offering support and information to students and parents. Additionally, teachers can access specialized lesson plans aimed at educating students about the risks and consequences of substance use, thereby fostering a proactive approach to prevention.

This recorded edWebinar is of interest to K-12 and higher education teachers, school leaders, and district leaders.

About the Presenters

Dr. Kristy Aristy is a first-generation Latinx- Puertorriqueña. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of New York and New Jersey, Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor with a gambling specialty, Family Development Counselor, National Treatment Tobacco Specialist, and an NYS Notary Public. She has been in the social services field since 1999. Dr. Aristy studied and received her Bachelor of Arts in criminology and minored in deviant behavior and social control at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Furthermore, she completed her master’s degree in social work at Hunter College School of Social Work, and a master’s degree in urban affairs at Hunter College School of Urban Planning and Affairs. She completed her Ph.D. in social welfare at Yeshiva University.

Dr. Aristy has more than 15 years of experience with a diversity of patients and settings, including working and developing Unaccompanied Children Programs in NYC, working in local communities with at-risk youth/gang youth, substance use treatment programming, and working with co-occurring populations. Dr. Aristy has taken her field experience to the classroom as an adjunct instructor and lecturer at colleges and training centers across New York City. She has extensive experience as a curriculum developer and trainer for the Office of Temporary Disability Assistance Shelter Oversight and Compliance Department. Additionally, she develops curricula as an OASAS Education and Training Provider for various nonprofit organizations and universities.

Dr. Kimberly Moore has worked in the social services arena for more than 20 years. Her style of practice blends workforce development with rich clinical therapeutic techniques with the goal of empowering people to be their own best and strongest advocate. Dr. Moore earned her Ph.D. in social welfare from Yeshiva University Wurzweiler School of Social Work. She also earned her Master of Arts in social work from the Hunter College Silberman School of Social Work in New York City and is a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned a Master of Arts in criminal justice with a specialization in addiction studies and an undergraduate degree from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York City. She is also a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (MAC-CASAC) and Certified Trainer through the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services.

Her professional experiences include working with some of New York City’s most vulnerable populations, including, but not limited to, chronically street homeless and mentally ill persons, those struggling with active chemical dependency and early recovery processes, justice-involved persons, and LGBTQ runaway homeless youth. Her research and practice interests include behavioral science, public health, and health promotion program design and development, specifically engaging communities and faith-based organizations. Dr. Moore serves as an adjunct professor at several academic institutions and thrives on opportunities for growth and professional development.

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Wurzweiler School of Social Work has been a leader in social work education for over 60 years. With a focus on cultural responsiveness, social justice, and human transformation, our community of students, faculty, administrators, and alumni all work to create positive change in the world. Wurzweiler is committed to connecting passion to purpose by training social workers who can navigate modern obstacles and complex systems with the ultimate goal of helping communities heal.