The Summit County Board of Health meeting on November 6, 2023, featured a significant presentation on the results of the Student Health and Risk Prevention (SHARP) survey, delivered by Mary Johnston and Pamela Bello. The SHARP survey, conducted every two years, focuses on the health and wellness of students in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12, and provides critical data on substance use, mental health, and social determinants of health.

Johnston, the project manager for the SHARP survey, highlighted that this year's data reflects a notable increase in participation, with 1,020 students involved, up from 825 in 2021. This increase is seen as a positive trend, especially following the challenges posed by the pandemic. The survey maintains a rigorous ethical framework, ensuring anonymity and voluntary participation, which Johnston emphasized as crucial for obtaining reliable data.

Key findings from the survey revealed trends in substance use among students in Summit County. Alcohol use remains prevalent, particularly among 12th graders, while marijuana use is comparable to state averages. Notably, vaping has emerged as a significant concern, with 12th graders reporting higher usage rates than the national average. Johnston pointed out that while substance use rates are higher than the state average, they remain lower than national figures, indicating a complex landscape of youth behavior in the county.

Mental health data from the survey also raised concerns, particularly regarding suicide ideation among 6th graders, which has shown an incremental increase over the years. However, Summit County's mental health metrics are generally more favorable than state averages, with fewer students reporting suicidal thoughts or plans compared to their peers statewide.

The presentation concluded with a discussion on the importance of community engagement and support systems for students. Johnston noted that while parents in Summit County are perceived as having strong anti-substance use attitudes, this does not always translate into lower usage rates among students. The data suggests that additional community and school-based interventions may be necessary to address these challenges effectively.

Overall, the SHARP survey results provide valuable insights into the health and wellness of students in Summit County, highlighting both areas of concern and opportunities for targeted interventions to support youth in the community. The Board of Health plans to further analyze these findings and develop strategies to enhance student health and safety moving forward.