InnerAct Alliance is proud to join with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and prevention partners across the country to celebrate National Prevention Week May 11-May 17 showcasing those who are making a difference in their communities by preventing substance use and promoting positive mental health.
One of the major goals of substance abuse prevention is to delay the age of onset of substance use - the earlier parents start talking to children about the risks of using alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs (ATOD), the better. Starting conversations early - and having them often, is critical since our kids are inundated by more information than ever these days.
Building knowledge of the facts and negative health effects that substance use may have on developing brains and bodies is an important first step. However, inexperienced youth may not be fully convinced by the possibility of negative consequences and may instead believe that adverse effects won't happen to them.
Active involvement & support of parents and caring adults is critical in the prevention of youth substance abuse. Science shows us that adult and teen brains are wired differently. The rational part of the brain responsible for understanding consequences, known as the prefrontal cortex, is not fully developed until about age 25. That's why teens are not always capable of good judgment - at their age, most information is processed in the brain's amygdala, which controls emotions so they tend to rely more on feelings than thinking their actions through. To help youth resist temptation and peer pressure, pair facts about substance use and brain development with teachable moments.
Let's work together to educate, support, and empower our children to make informed decisions. When kids choose their path and develop skills to safeguard their future goals, they are more inclined to choose actions consistent with their goals and not take risks to jeopardize their ability to achieve them.
SAMHSA is working to change the prevention landscape by providing evidence-based and accessible resources. By working together, we can confront the societal challenges surrounding substance misuse and celebrate stories of prevention.
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