A new effort is underway across Ohio to prevent drug abuse among Ohio's most vulnerable citizens - our children. Governor John R. Kasich and First Lady Karen W. Kasich have launched Start Talking! to give parents, guardians, educators and community leaders the tools to start the conversation with Ohio's youth about the importance of living healthy, drug-free lives.

A majority of substance-free adolescents credit their parents for the decision not to use illegal substances. Likewise, teachers and other authority figures can have a similar influence on youth and their decision-making.

Parents, mentors and peers can make a difference just by talking to the young people in their lives about drug abuse. Please Start Talking!

Join the director of the department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, Tracy Plouck, for a panel discussion on the new drug prevention program. With Dir. Plouck are Marcie Seidel, executive director of Drug Free Action Alliance, and Deb Robison from Norwood City Schools near Cincinnati.

You can still email your questions anytime to:

info@starttalking.ohio.gov.