"Saving our Youth" Forum

North County High School is sponsoring a forum to raise awareness of substance abuse and depression.

The "Saving Our Youth: Whatever it Takes!" forum will be held on April 6 at 6 p.m. in the school's auditorium.

Experts from the health care, psychological, counseling, and legal fields will be on hand to talk with parents and concerned county residents about youth safety. School psychologists will discuss the warning signs of substance abuse and depression and the resources available to help children and families deal with the issues. In separate sessions, the county Police Department will discuss safety concerns and the National Alliance on Mental Illness will focus on depression and other disorders.

"There is no question that the issues facing our children today are more complex than ever before," said North County High School Principal Dr. William Heiser. "As adults, we owe it to our children to be aware of the signs and symptoms that can help us address issues before they become severe. This forum is geared to do exactly that, and it provides a prime opportunity for parents with children of any age to be more informed."

Along with the three main sessions, representatives from more than two dozen organizations and agencies will also provide information to parents. These agencies include Systems of Care, Pathways, Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation and Parks, the YWCA of Anne Arundel County, The Partnership for Children, Youth, and Families, Anne Arundel County Mental Health Agency and the Anne Arundel Abuse Counseling Center.

The forum is free and open to the public.