A Comprehensive Approach to Drug Prevention
Research shows preventing drug use before it begins is the most cost-effective, common-sense approach to promoting safe and healthy communities. Prevention results in better academic performance among teens who don't use drugs, fewer auto accidents from reduced drugged driving, and more productive workplaces due to lower absenteeism. Preventing drug use also lowers HIV-transmission rates due to decreased injection drug use, creates safer home environments for children previously considered drug-endangered, and revitalizes neighborhoods due to coalition-based efforts. Put simply, drug prevention saves lives and cuts costs. Read more about prevention in the National Strategy.
Substance Abuse Prevention
Young people deserve every opportunity to live up to their full potential and exposure to effective drug prevention messages helps their chances. Federal resources totaling $1.7 billion are requested in FY 2012 to support education and outreach programs aimed at preventing the initiation of drug use. This represents a nearly 8 percent increase ($123.0 million) over the FY 2010 enacted level. Here are some ongoing prevention programs and activities:
Prevention Campaigns
National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign
The youth-targeted Above the Influence campaign balances broad prevention messaging at the national level with targeted efforts at the local community level. The Above the Influence brand remains one of the most widely recognized youth brands in the country and continues to strengthen teen anti-drug beliefs. Learn more about the National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign.
Drug-Free Communities Support Program
This Federal grant program provides funding to community-based coalitions that organize to prevent youth substance use. Based on the idea that local drug problems require local solutions, the program has funded over 1,750 coalitions and currently mobilizes nearly 9,000 community volunteers across the country. Learn more about the Drug-Free Communities Support Program.
Additional Resources
Although some of the risk factors that increase a young person’s chances of using drugs are similar to other behavioral problems, many risk factors are unique to drug use (such as access to drugs and/or favorable attitudes toward drug use). These resources provide information on evidence-based drug prevention strategies:
