This week, Berlin High School Mountaineers in grades 10-12 attended a presentation by Stephen Hill, speaker, author, attorney, advocate, and founder of Speak Sobriety. Mr. Hill spoke to the students about substance abuse, the power of addiction, and mental health, sharing his personal story of addiction and his journey to his current wellness lifestyle.
To open the day’s presentations, Berlin Middle High School Principal Mr. David Bernsley shared his own experience of watching people close to him struggle with substance use disorder. Guest presenter Mr. Hill appreciated this open and honest start expressing that Principal Bernsley helped set the tone for the real conversations that transpired throughout the day.
Rensselaer County District Attorney Mary Pat Donnelly was also in attendance, introducing Mr. Hill to the Berlin High School students.
District Attorney Donnelly prioritizes funding youth substance abuse prevention programs in Rensselaer County through forfeiture and seizure funds from substance-abuse-related arrests and was glad to offer this opportunity at Berlin High School.
“Prosecutors like DA Mary Pat Donnelly respond to crime after it happens, but her office is also focused on preventing it before it starts,” said Hill. “That matters.”
Mr. Hill is grateful for his partnership with the Rensselaer County DA. In court, Hill, a defense attorney, might be seen as an adversary, but in life, advocacy, and sobriety work, District Attorney Donnelly is one of his biggest supporters and allies.
Mr. Hill shared his story with the Mountaineers during the first part of the day, moving into breakout sessions with the support of BCSD Student Assistance Counselor and SADD Advisor Ms. Shayna Davner.
Hill spoke about his struggles and how easily he fell into substance abuse, attributing his continued success in recovery to building a life of value, worth defending from negative influence and temptation. Hill’s understanding of the daily struggles young people face and his dedication to connecting with youth, sharing his story, listening, and advocating made him relatable and approachable to the students, who were able to speak openly and ask questions about substance abuse and prevention.
Mr. Hill answered the students’ questions directly and talked about navigating the challenges of being a student today and understanding how personal actions can not only have a personal impact but also impact others.
“Focus on your mental health through healthy habits and routines, as well as being mindful of who you hang out with, where you go, and what you do,” said Hill.
Mr. Hill’s knowledge of substance use prevention and mental health, as well as his inspiring story, were very beneficial to the Mountaineers.
BCSD is grateful for his time and would like to thank Rensselaer County District Attorney Mary Pat Donnell for making this enriching opportunity possible for the Mountaineers.
To learn more about Stephen Hill and his message, visit https://speaksobriety.com/about/