PITTSBORO, NC— Chatham County Schools, in partnership with Chatham Drug Free, will host a series of three virtual community conversations focused on mental health services and substance use.

These informal and free sessions are designed to provide parents, caregivers, local professionals, and community members with an opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with local service providers. Participants may join at any time during the session and are welcome to stay for full discussion or attend briefly as their schedules allow.

WHAT: Virtual Community Conversations on Mental Health Services and Substance Use

WHEN: Tuesday, March 24, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

WHERE: Via Zoom
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86356884522?pwd=2gWZansajQhfAdhTcSLWofmfwG2rza.1

Several local service providers will be available during the session to answer questions, share information, and connect participants with available resources. The conversations aim to increase awareness of local support and foster open dialogue around mental health and substance use in the community.

National data shows that youth in the United States are experiencing significant mental health challenges alongside ongoing concerns with substance use. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 40% of high school students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, and roughly 20% have seriously considered attempting suicide, making suicide one of the leading causes of death among youth. At the same time, data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration indicates that approximately 7% of adolescents ages 12–17 report current illicit drug use, with marijuana being the most commonly used substance. While most youth are not engaging in substance use, emerging trends such as increased nicotine vaping and the rise of fentanyl-related overdoses present serious risks. Importantly, mental health challenges and substance use often overlap, as many young people use substances as a way to cope with stress, trauma, or emotional distress, underscoring the critical need for early prevention, education, and intervention efforts.

“When we teach young people how to cope, we reduce the need for them to escape,” said Rob Schooley, with Chatham Drug Free.

Residents can contact Rob Schooley rob@chathamdrugfree.org for more information about this event and the Chatham Drug Free website.