Research of the INEBRIA YOUTH SIG

In this presentation, we will describe the formation and activities of the Youth Special Interest Group of INEBRIA. The Youth SIG was formed in late 2020, as a result of a growing recognition among INEBRIA members of the myriad gaps in the literature about screening, brief intervention and referral to treatment (SBIRT) for young people with unhealthy alcohol and other drug use. The SIG is currently comprised of approximately 50 members, representing 15 countries, with strong representation from low and middle income countries (LMICs). The SIG meets quarterly, and produces a quarterly newsletter, with numerous correspondences in between meetings. SIG members also have the opportunity to participate informally in ongoing virtual training programs at various participating institutions (e.g., existing Post-Doctoral training series). The SIG has sponsored symposia at each annual INEBRIA meeting since its formation. SIG members identified the need for a roadmap to lead work in this field based on the collective expertise of its members. The aim of the roadmap, currently under review, is to elucidate what is already known regarding SBIRT in young people and what still needs to be studied, and to highlight the kind of research needed to facilitate and promote access to high-quality, developmentally-appropriate screening and intervention, and improve outcomes of young people. This effort will contribute to the maturation of the field, and stimulate much needed discussions among research, policy and practice spheres. The SIGs next project is a systematic review of screening and brief intervention as prevention/anticipatory guidance.