In the recent round of Healthy North Coast’s clinical society gatherings, more than 340 health professionals engaged with child and youth specialists to explore the rapid growth of child and youth addiction issues.
For some, it was an introduction to these addictions and challenges, while for others it was a chance to deepen their understanding of child and youth addictions, especially in the primary health environment.
The events focused on vaping use and social media and gaming addiction. They offered participants the opportunity to delve into the latest strategies and research around these topics.
‘The Unplugged Psychologist’ Brad Marshall provided expert insights into the addictive nature of social media and gaming, while the Mid North Coast Local Health District’s Melinda Ricketts and NSW Health’s Stephen Gammack shed light on the alarming rise of vaping among young people. Attendees gained practical tools to effectively address these challenges.
‘It was great to participate in a lively discussion around these topics with some key takeaway learning points that I’ve been able to apply in my clinical practice already. Enjoying a tasty meal in a relaxed environment, catching up with friends as well as making new connections with colleagues were also fantastic highlights.’ Dr Elizabeth Hicks, GP and Medical Educator, Healthy North Coast
Attendees were equipped with screening tools and clinical approaches to tackle vaping use and social media and gaming addiction. The events provided health professionals with tools to identify warning signs, promote healthy habits, and engage in meaningful conversations with young people.
Discussions were timely, addressing local primary care clinicians’ concerns and ensuring they are well-prepared to address these issues in their work.
More innovative events designed to support practitioners and their communities towards a balanced and healthy life are planned throughout 2023.
Clinical society events are a platform for primary health professionals to come together to make friends, network, learn new and localised information and have fun in a collaborative, knowledge-sharing space. Face to face events are held locally every three months and focus on a topic relevant to the North Coast and the local area. Register here for your local clinical society and find out about upcoming education and events.