LIBERTY — On March 8th, Sullivan 180 launched the Warrior Teen Film Series with “Nic Sick: The Dangers of Youth Vaping,” at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. The film was attended by over 50 Sullivan County high school students; and over 20 school staff and community organization representatives. Warrior Teens aims to inspire informed, passionate teen leaders who can support efforts to improve their generation’s health through the power of award-winning films. The film series addresses various health related issues including nutrition, mental health, bullying, social media usage, and substance use disorder. Following the screening, students engaged in a guided discussion with community partners on the issue.

Students learned about marketing tactics used by tobacco companies and explored both the health and environmental consequences of e-cigarettes. 

They were also provided with resources available to help them and their peers ditch vapes and tobacco. They were offered “quit kits” and had the opportunity to create essential oil inhalers as an alternative relaxation technique. 

Warrior Teens is made possible with funding from the NYS Department of Health, Bureau of Health Equity and the 98.3 WSUL Heart-A-Thon; and support from Catholic Charities of Orange & Sullivan, Cornell Cooperative Extension, ENGN, Garnet Health, SALT (Sullivan Allies Leading Together), Sullivan County Youth Bureau and the Tobacco Free Action Communities Reality Check Program.