Horsham Township Forum to Address Substance Abuse

Parents are often told that they could not have done anything to prevent their son or daughter’s substance abuse. While family and friends are not to blame, a panel featuring a family therapist, young people in recovery, and friends and family members will explore ways that we actually can help to change someone’s path.

“We are hearing from family members and friends that they need guidance when someone they care about is abusing alcohol or drugs,” said Kim Rubenstein, Be a Part of the Conversation executive director. “Even the process of identifying and acknowledging that there may be a problem can be a challenge. No one wants to believe that someone they care about is abusing alcohol or drugs, but the person of concern is often unable to recognize their own level of abuse.”

Rubenstein, who has led the drug and alcohol awareness organization since it was founded in 2011 with the Hatboro-Horsham School District, said it’s important for parents and other loved ones to recognize their own concerns in instances when drug or alcohol use is suspected. Knowing how and when to intervene are paramount, she said.

Guest speaker, Rick Shugart, MFT, is a family therapist who works with families and others who are impacted by addiction and other challenges. Shugart will open Be A Part of the Conversation’s fourth annual forum with a brief presentation. Panelists, including young people in recovery, as well as family members and friends who took steps to intervene when someone they care about was struggling, will interact with Shugart during the discussion, which begins at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 28.

Shugart “skillfully guides families through unfamiliar waters. He will help us to identify ways that we can realistically intervene, or provide appropriate support for positive changes, rather than ‘rescuing’ or making excuses,” according to Rubenstein.

If you go

Be A Part of the Conversation’s fourth annual Conversation Forum will be held Jan. 28 at 6:30 p.m. at Horsham Township Community Center, 1025 Horsham Road in Horsham. Admission is free and all are welcome. For more information email info@conversation.zone.