Speaker: Dr. Lala Forrest is a resident physician at Yale University School of Medicine specializing in psychiatry with a deep interest in psychotherapy, trauma, and the impact of childhood experiences on mental health. A dedicated advocate for Indigenous health, education, and cultural revitalization, Dr. Forrest is proud member of the Pit River Tribe and has a steadfast commitment to advancing holistic approaches to well-being. As a co-founder of the Indigenous School of Medicine and an At-Large Director for the Association of American Indian Physicians, Dr. Forrest works to empower Indigenous communities through culturally informed education, leadership development, and innovative health care solutions. Through her work, Dr. Forrest addresses health disparities by focusing on prevention, community engagement, and honoring Indigenous knowledge systems. Dr. Forrest is passionate about resource-sharing and collaboration, exemplified by her leadership on projects like the Indigenous Collaborative Hub, which connects organizations across health, education, and cultural sectors. Rooted in the understanding that health is holistic and deeply interconnected with identity, land, and culture, Dr. Forrest combines clinical training, academic expertise, lived experience, and a visionary approach to drive positive change for Indigenous peoples and communities.
About: This session, Effective Prevention Strategies for Youth Substance Use: A Culturally-Informed Approach, provides an in-depth exploration of substance use trends among youth, focusing on nicotine, cannabis, and alcohol. Participants will learn to identify key risks and emerging patterns of use, analyze evidence-based strategies for prevention, and apply culturally-informed approaches with a specific focus on Indigenous populations in what is now considered Mississippi, including the Choctaw community. By integrating these insights, prevention specialists will be better equipped to deliver impactful, culturally relevant care to youth and young adults in these communities.
Learning Objectives
- Identify the unique risks and trends associated with youth use of substances such as nicotine, cannabis, and alcohol.
- Analyze evidence-based prevention strategies to address substance use among youth and young adults.
- Apply culturally-informed practices to enhance the effectiveness of prevention efforts when working with Indigenous communities.