London and the Level Up Team, a community-based socially active group, officially launched its Substance Abuse Initiative within the St. Mary’s North Constituency, beginning at the Bendals Primary School. The program aims to educate children about the dangers of substance abuse and to encourage them to make positive life choices from an early age.
A recent interactive session at the school, focused on helping students understand the importance of making smart choices, making safe choices, and making the right decisions. Through engaging discussions and activities, the children learned how to know what is dangerous, love their body, think before they act, choose friends who lift them up, focus on their goals, and talk to someone they trust.
Dr. Doran, a psychologist with years of professional experience, delivered an enlightening and interactive presentation. He conducted a live demonstration depicting the human brain and its protective structures. The brain is surrounded by cerebrospinal fluid, a clear fluid that cushions the brain and spinal cord, protecting them from injury. It is also enclosed in the meninges, layers of membranes, and further shielded by the skull. The brain itself contains fatty tissue, particularly in the myelin sheath, which insulates nerve cells and ensures efficient communication between neurons.
Dr. Doran explained that when harmful substances such as alcohol, nicotine, recreational drugs, or other toxic chemicals enter the body, they can interfere with the brain’s normal functioning. These substances can damage neurons, disrupt neurotransmitter activity, affect memory and learning, and even impair decision-making and emotional control. In extreme cases, prolonged substance abuse can lead to permanent brain damage, reduced cognitive abilities, and mental health disorders.
The children were highly focused and deeply engaged throughout the session. They were eager to ask questions, many of which reflected genuine curiosity and concern about the topic. Their active participation demonstrated a strong interest in understanding how to make responsible choices and protect their health.
Speaking at the event, team leader, Dr. Terri London emphasized the importance of empowering young people with knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions. She noted that prevention through education is one of the most effective ways to safeguard the nation’s youth and foster a healthier, more resilient generation.
The Substance Abuse Initiative forms part of the Level Up Team’s ongoing commitment to community development, youth empowerment, and public health awareness across St. Mary’s North. The team plans to expand the program to other schools and communities in the coming weeks, reinforcing their message that “It’s nice to be nice” and reminding young people that their future depends on the choices they make today.
At the end of the session, Ariel April, President of the Student Council at Bendals Primary School, gave the vote of thanks on behalf of the students.
