Substance Abuse Prevention Strategies

Substance abuse, whether of alcohol or drugs, takes a massive toll on individuals, families and society. Use becomes abuse when people are impaired in their ability to function at home and at work. At its worst, substance abuse results in death, crime, broken homes, disrupted careers, destroyed minds and shattered lives. It also affects future generations, often continuing the cycle of dysfunction. Breaking the cycle of harm caused by substance abuse is critical to the health and well-being of people and society at large.

Be a Responsible Parent

• Learning begins at home. If you're a parent, model good behavior for your children. Don't drink alcohol or use drugs. Talk to your children about the dangers of substance abuse, and make it clear to them that such behavior is unacceptable. Teach your children to say no when faced with peer pressure, and encourage them to confide in you if their friends have problems with substance abuse. Be your children's primary source of wisdom, guidance and empowering information.

Be a Good Role Model

• Even if you aren't a parent, model good behavior for the young people in your life. Stay away from illicit substances, and encourage your young relatives, students and friends to do the same. Let them know that they can come to you for advice and support should they encounter substance abuse or its harmful effects at school, their friends' homes or their own homes.

Take Action in Your Community

• Organizations like Partnership for a Drug-Free America and Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America provide opportunities to get involved in helping to prevent substance abuse. You can also donate to these organizations to support their efforts. These organizations advocate for public policy, train professionals to work with families, schools and churches, and create community-based grassroots groups to prevent substance abuse and facilitate positive change.