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Where mission
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September is a month of transitions, fresh starts, and reflection. As students head back to school, families adjust to new routines, and awareness campaigns bring prevention, recovery, and self-care into focus. This issue of the P-25 Thrive newsletter meets the moment.
Inside, you'll find resources connecting suicide prevention, recovery, and well-being as part of the same continuum of care; practical guidance for parents supporting young people through the pressures of a new school year; a look at how Family Initiated Treatment (FIT) connects across behavioral health systems; and updates on CRAFT training, Washington Thriving, and a new school-focused FIT resource.
As always, thank you for the work you do every day to support children, youth, young adults, caregivers, and families across Washington.
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September brings together three national awareness campaigns that share a common thread: the belief that every person deserves support, connection, and the opportunity to heal. National Suicide Prevention Month, National Recovery Month, and National Self-Care Awareness Month each offer a lens into the work we do every day across the Prenatal-25 section, and together, they remind us that prevention, recovery, and well-being are not separate conversations. They are part of the same continuum of care.
For the families, youth, and young adults we serve, these themes show up in real and interconnected ways. A young person navigating a substance use disorder may also be experiencing suicidal ideation. A caregiver supporting their child through a behavioral health crisis may be neglecting their own well-being. A provider delivering intensive services may be carrying the weight of compassion fatigue without recognizing it. These realities are why our work spans the full spectrum, from early identification and crisis response to long-term recovery and community connection.
This month, we encourage you to take a moment to reflect on where these themes intersect in your own work and life. If you support others through difficult moments, remember that your own well-being matters too. Self-care is not a luxury; it is what sustains your ability to show up for the people who need you.
If you or someone you know is struggling, resources are available. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by call or text. And for those supporting families impacted by substance use, free education sessions are available through our SUD education series.
Thank you for the work you do every day to support children, youth, young adults, caregivers, and families across Washington. This month and every month, your commitment to prevention, recovery, and care makes a difference.
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Free CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training) Implementation training is open for SUD providers and mental health professionals. Learn to facilitate evidence-based groups that support families and caregivers impacted by substance use disorder. In-person training November 5–6 in Olympia, with virtual Skills Labs in early 2027. Space is limited.
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Washington Thriving is advancing its first four initiatives this fall, including recruiting a director, appointing a Leadership Council, launching a perinatal SUD project, and moving K-12 school behavioral health policy into Phase 2. The Governor's Office and community partners continue building the System of Care infrastructure together.
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As students return to school, staff are often first to notice changes in a young person's behavior. HCA's school-focused resource helps counselors, nurses, and support staff understand FIT, which allows parents and caregivers to request behavioral health evaluation and treatment for youth ages 13-17.
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September marks the start of school for many families. Although it can be an exciting time for both parents and students, it can also cause worry and anxiety. Some young people may turn to substances to cope.
Transitions are full of unknowns, but there are small things that parents and other caring adults can do to support a young person who may be struggling.
Know their friends
Having relationships with your child’s friends and their families increases shared knowledge of how your young person spends their time. Peer influence continues to be a strong contributor in youth substance use. If you suspect substance use is a part of their social circle, have a conversation about it.
Know their schedule
Having a structured, but adaptable schedule of activities increases positive outcomes for young people. Since substance use can be an outlet for many adolescents and young adults, you can encourage healthy management of stress by discussing a balanced schedule that includes exercise, healthy meals and enough sleep.
Invite a conversation
It is easier to have prepared how you’d like to talk about substance use than trying to do it in a challenging moment. Reflect on your own relationship with alcohol or other drugs… can you find understanding in why your young person may turn to these choices when pressured to fit in, seek escape, or relax? Understanding is not approving or condoning, but models that you are able to empathize with their experience. Simple statements of ‘I understand it is difficult for you’ or ‘Tell me more about why you have made those choices’ can set a stage for a more connected conversation.
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Family Initiated Treatment (FIT) is a voluntary pathway that allows caregivers to initiate a behavioral health evaluation for a youth under 18. FIT does not exist in isolation. It connects families to a broader behavioral health continuum that includes crisis services, outpatient treatment, inpatient care, and school-based supports. Understanding how FIT intersects with other programs can help providers and partners make timely, informed referrals.
When FIT intersects with crisis services: If a family contacts crisis services and the youth does not meet criteria for involuntary treatment but the caregiver is seeking evaluation, FIT may be an appropriate next step. Crisis providers can share FIT information and support a warm handoff.
When FIT intersects with WISe: A youth already involved with Wraparound with Intensive Services (WISe) may have a caregiver who wants to explore alternative options through FIT. Coordination between the WISe team and the FIT provider ensures continuity and prevents gaps.
When FIT intersects with schools: School staff often notice behavioral changes first. While schools do not initiate FIT, they can inform families about the pathway and connect them to resources.
FIT is one access point within a larger system. When providers and partners understand how it connects, families get to the right support faster.
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