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Things have been busy here at Impact. So busy in fact we regret that the Summer newsletter wasn't published. You might also notice that this newsletter is in a slightly different format. We are skipping the community spotlight this quarter to focus on "Systems Mapping" in Nerd Corner. We hope you enjoy learning about this powerful strategy.
Circumstances aligned recently that have increased the potential effectiveness of substance misuse prevention coalitions throughout Nevada. First, the coalitions were provided with data showing substance use trends disaggregated by various demographic categories (gender, age, LGBTQ+, etc.). Second, the coalitions were granted funding to focus on creating a "Disparity Impact Plan."
Most substance misuse prevention coalitions focus on "universal" strategies, meaning they provide services to everyone in their service area. A Disparity Impact Plan allows an organization to use data to provide services to populations that might need additional support, information, or education.
Enter "systems mapping."
Rather than think, "Those kinds of kids are drug users," we use systems mapping to identify what experiences "those kids" might have had that have led to their increased substance use rates. It moves us away from stereotypical thinking and refocuses us on where we might reduce risk factors and increase protective factors within the systems that interact with young people. In other words, increased substance misuse rates among members of a certain population are typically a symptom of bias or lack of support within systems (community, family, schools, peer) rather than an inherent trait in certain people.
When beginning a systems map Impact, together with its clients, draws actual maps of each system using a cloud-based whiteboard application. We complete a literature review so that we have a solid understanding of research in the area. We identify static elements, supervisory or regulatory agencies or entities, and feedback loops for each system. We then work with representatives from each of the demographic categories to identify potential "change levers" within each system. For example:
- We identified that there are too few supports for parents whose child may be questioning their gender or sexuality. Family conflict is a risk factor for substance misuse.
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We found an evidence-based pamphlet from SAMHSA that provides information, resources, and support for parents in this situation.
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We shared that brochure with representatives from the LGBTQ+ community and asked them, "Would this have been helpful for your parents?" "How might we make this available for parents?" "Do you have other suggestions?" This step is crucial. Impact strongly believes in the "nothing about us without us" philosophy.
- We repeat this process for every demographic category that demonstrates statistically significant higher rates of substance misuse.
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