Substance Use Prevention Month
October is Substance Use Prevention Month. This month and every month, we have the opportunity to spread awareness and education. Substance misuse can lead to serious health issues, including addiction, mental disorders, and chronic diseases. Early prevention reduces the risk of these negative health outcomes, and helps safeguard physical and mental health.
Substance use prevention is essential not just for individual well-being but for the health and safety of entire communities. By prioritizing prevention, we can create a healthier, more informed society that supports individuals in making positive choices. It targets the root causes and risk factors associated with substance misuse, aiming to stop misuse before it begins.
Creating strong support systems among families and peers can provide individuals with the resilience they need to resist substance use. Programs that foster healthy relationships and communication skills are vital. Mutual Ground’s Substance Use Prevention Education Team works with local schools and organizations to empower youth to make informed choices. By providing information about the risks associated with substance use and the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, students are equipped with the tools to make positive, healthy decisions for themselves.
The Prevention Team delivers a variety of services that focus on this youth empowerment. Programs include but are not limited to:
Too Good For Drugs Curriculum
Communication Campaigns
Youth Advisory Committees
You can be an advocate for prevention too! Anyone can be a part of the road to a healthier future for our youth. You can do this by staying informed and sharing information, fostering open communication with youth, modeling positive behavior, and engaging in community initiatives. Together we can build a culture of prevention that reduces substance use and promotes a happier, healthier lifestyle for everyone.
Written by Kelly Walsh
Prevention Educator at Mutual Ground