This year, we’re bringing back the #IChooseToday theme for National Substance Abuse Prevention Month. Youth are encouraged to make choices today that will benefit their future selves – those that promote health, well-being, and personal values.
More and more teens are choosing to remain substance-free, increasing their options today and as they age. #IChooseToday can also be used to celebrate times with family members and loved ones who have overcome addiction.
October was first declared as National Substance Abuse Prevention Month in 2011.
The month is dedicated to:
The 2021 national “Monitoring the Future” survey overview prioritized the following information:
KCTC Student Survey data indicates decreasing prevalence of regular substance use among youth in recent history, as evidenced among surveyed 6th, 8th, 10th, and 12th graders in Kansas reporting:
Talking about drugs and alcohol with youth and young adults can be a difficult task, but National Substance Abuse Prevention Month can give parents, caregivers, and other adults a good opportunity for the topic. Most people don’t know as much about addiction and brain development as we think, and yet it’s important to lead without lecturing.
Here are some tips recommended for talking with youth and young adults this month, and throughout the year-
As we continue to promote the KPC Conference them “Connect the Dots” in recognition of the benefits of bringing together strengths and strategies to prevent substance abuse, suicide, problem gambling, and other behavioral health concerns, we are also highlighting the National Child Traumatic Stress Network’s (NCTSN) focus on National Substance Abuse Prevention Month.
Want to get involved in substance abuse and misuse prevention? Want to know what is happening in your part of the state?
Check out the KPC Coalition in your area: