Hidden In Plain Sight shows warning signs of teen drug use

Thursday, July 25, 2024 at 11:26 AM

By Johnny McCrory

Hidden In Plain Sight simulates a teenager's bedroom.

Hidden In Plain Sight brings an interesting learning tool for parents and guardians to the Putnam County Fairgrounds.

The exhibit is an opportunity for parents, teachers and others who work with adolescents to experience and explore the environment of a teenager and learn to spot signs of possible substance use and risky behavior.

Hidden In Plain Sight simulates a teenager's bedroom. Inside the exhibit, 50 or more items have been placed which may be indicators that the teen is using tobacco, alcohol or other drugs, or is engaging in behavior that could lead to such use. Some items are obvious, some are clever; some are well-hidden and some are sitting in plain sight.
The purpose of the exhibit is to help parents and other adults see the environment with new eyes, to see the warning signs that may be obvious once they are pointed out, and then help them have a conversation with the teen to stop dangerous behaviors before the worst happens - addiction, legal trouble, injury or even death.
The Hidden In Plain Sight exhibit and training is a bedroom-sized space and only adults are admitted into the space. Depending on the host organization's needs, people can explore the space individually, in groups, or guided by staff. A variety of educational materials and resources is made available for further information.

Mental Health of Putnam County is sponsoring the exhibit.

The exhibit is available at the Putnam County Fair Thursday from 1 - 9 p.m.