Raising children today means helping them navigate many tricky topics — and drugs and alcohol are among the most important . Research shows kids look to their parents first when making decisions about risky behaviors, including substance use. Parents — even though it may not always feel like it — have more influence than peers or media when it comes to their children’s choices around alcohol and other drugs. ( SAMHSA ) Here’s how to have meaningful, honest, and effective conv

One of the most powerful strategies to reduce substance use is prevention that begins before youth ever start experimenting . Decades of prevention science show that early prevention changes developmental pathways, strengthens protective factors, and leads to better lifelong health and behavioral outcomes. 1. Early Prevention Reduces Long-Term Risk Research consistently shows that early substance use significantly increases the likelihood of substance use disorder later on in

When it comes to youth substance use, one of the most important things to understand is why  some young people are more vulnerable than others. Research consistently shows that substance use doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It’s influenced by a combination of risk factors —things that increase the likelihood of use—and protective factors —things that reduce it. Understanding both sides of the equation empowers parents and caregivers, schools, and communities to move beyond fear-ba

Youth-serving organizations play a critical role in prevention, early intervention, and youth well-being. Staying informed about current substance use trends helps staff, leaders, and volunteers respond effectively, reinforce protective factors, and support young people before risky behaviors escalate. The good news: most youth are not regularly using substances. The challenge: emerging products and uneven risk across populations require thoughtful, informed action. The Big P

For decades, youth substance use prevention was often summed up with one phrase: “Just say no.”  While well-intentioned, this approach oversimplified a complex issue and placed the responsibility entirely on young people—without giving them the tools, support, or context they need to make healthy decisions. Today, prevention looks very different. Modern, evidence-based youth substance use prevention recognizes that substance use is influenced by relationships, environments, m

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