Clouded Judgement: Responding to the Risks of Youth Vaping

Clouded Judgement: Responding to the Risks of Youth Vaping

Regional Prevention Symposium | Free Community Event

📅 August 4, 2026 | 🕘 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Lena Pope Amon Carter Center | Fort Worth, Texas

Join Challenge of Tarrant County, the Drug Enforcement Administration Dallas Field Division, and Studying Alcohol and Related Risks (STARR Lab) at the University of Texas at Arlington School of Social Work for Clouded Judgement, a multidisciplinary symposium convening prevention professionals, educators, behavioral health practitioners, researchers, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders to address the rapidly evolving landscape of youth vaping and adolescent substance use.

As vaping continues to impact young people nationwide, this timely symposium will provide a forum for examining emerging trends, prevention science, policy considerations, and practical response strategies designed to strengthen community action.

Through expert-led presentations, interactive learning experiences, and cross-sector dialogue, attendees will explore current research on adolescent e-cigarette and cannabis use, co-use patterns, youth risk factors, and evidence-informed approaches for prevention and early intervention. Sessions will emphasize translating research into actionable strategies for schools, families, healthcare systems, and community-based programs.

Symposium Highlights

Participants will have the opportunity to:

• Gain insight into emerging trends in youth vaping
• Explore evidence-based prevention and intervention strategies
• Learn to recognize warning signs and engage youth in meaningful prevention conversations
• Examine the intersection of research, policy, and community response
• Connect with regional experts and partners advancing adolescent substance use prevention

Featured Interactive Experiences

VAPE Takeback Event
As part of the symposium, attendees are invited to participate in a VAPE Takeback initiative, facilitated by the DEA Dallas Field Division in collaboration with the Tarrant County Sheriffs Department. It is designed to promote safe disposal, increase awareness, and support community-level prevention efforts surrounding vaping products.

“Hidden in Plain Sight” Interactive Exhibition

Experience a powerful, hands-on exhibit showcasing commonly used vape devices, concealment methods, and other indicators of adolescent substance use that are often overlooked. This immersive learning opportunity helps participants better recognize the products, tactics, and environments youth may encounter.

Who Should Attend

This symposium is designed for:

• Prevention professionals
• School administrators, nurses, counselors, and educators
• Behavioral and public health practitioners
• Youth intervention specialists
• Law enforcement and juvenile justice professionals
• Parents, caregivers, and community advocates
• Researchers and students interested in adolescent health

Why Attend

Clouded Judgement is more than a symposium—it is a call to action for our community. Attendees will leave with practical tools, strengthened partnerships, and innovative strategies to support youth in making healthier, informed decisions.

Whether you are working on the front lines of prevention or seeking to deepen your understanding of this emerging issue, this event offers an important opportunity to learn, collaborate, and lead.

Registration is Free | Space is Limited

Join us in advancing prevention, strengthening response, and protecting youth.

Reserve your spot today!

Continuing Education credits are available for Social Work, LPC, and LCDC.

CNE and TCOLE are pending.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Challenge of Tarrant County