A two-fold approach is helping prevent and treat substance use among young people in Northern Michigan, the Petoskey News reported on February 3.

The Northwest Michigan Community Health Agency arranged for two older teens currently in recovery from addictive disorders to visit the Petoskey Middle School and share their stories. Although the speakers are not professionals, younger teens admire these 19-year olds, so their message comes across clearly.

"I never thought that such things could happen in our 'lil town," wrote one seventh-grader in response to the older teens' presentation. "I also like how you said stuff like it is and now I know that I definitely won't try it."

Additionally, a newly formed juvenile drug court will treat alcohol and other drug use by intensive monitoring by court staff, therapy sessions, family participation, frequent court meetings and consequences for non-compliance.

"This team approach to substance abuse intervention is a terrific example of how a community-wide effort can be brought to bear in an attempt to resolve a problem that affects the community at large," said judge Fred Mulhauser, a probate and family court judge for two Michigan counties.