Every young person deserves a safe place to sleep, supportive adults, and opportunities to thrive. Unfortunately, thousands of youth across the United States experience homelessness or unstable housing each year. Whether they are sleeping on a friend's couch, living in shelters, staying in cars, or surviving on the streets, unhoused youth face challenges that extend far beyond finding their next meal or a safe place to stay. Housing Instability Is a Risk Factor—Not a Cause It

Think about the last time you spent time outside. Maybe you took a walk, played a game, or sat under a tree. Chances are you felt calmer, happier, and more refreshed afterward. Youth need these moments too. Getting young people outside for activities offers more than just fresh air and exercise. It builds strong protective factors that help youth grow into confident, healthy adults. Outdoor experiences also play a key role in preventing substance use by providing positive alt

When parents think about protecting their children, they often think about seat belts, bike helmets, smoke detectors, or learning CPR. These safety measures do not encourage risky behavior—they prepare families to respond during an emergency. Naloxone belongs in that same category. As counterfeit pills containing fentanyl and other illicit opioids continue to increase across the country, youth overdose prevention has become an important part of community health. Parents, care

Summer is often seen as a season of freedom for young people—longer days, fewer responsibilities, and more time with friends. But while summer offers opportunities for fun and growth, it also comes with increased risks. For many youth, summer means less structure, less supervision, and more unscheduled time. Research and prevention professionals have long recognized that substance use often rises during summer months as opportunities for experimentation increase. Whether it’s

Today’s youth are growing up in a world where drug culture is often normalized, glamorized, and constantly visible online. From viral videos and memes to music, influencers, and social media trends, young people are exposed to messages that can make substance use appear harmless, exciting, or even socially acceptable. Helping youth recognize manipulation, think critically about what they see online, and build confidence to resist peer pressure is essential in creating healthi

Summer brings freedom, fun, and new experiences for young people — but it can also bring increased risk for experimentation with alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. Without the structure of the school day, youth often have more unsupervised time, less routine, and greater exposure to peer pressure. Community organizations play a critical role in keeping prevention efforts active during the summer months. The good news: prevention does not have to feel like a lecture. The most

HIDTA's new 12-week prevention campaign offers a timely reminder of one of the most powerful protective factors in a young person’s life: one caring adult. Whether that adult is a mentor, coach, youth leader, teacher, counselor, or faith leader, consistent support from a trusted adult can significantly reduce the likelihood of substance use and help youth build resilience and healthy coping skills. Youth-serving organizations are uniquely positioned to provide what many young

Every year, communities across the country recognize National Prevention Week, an initiative led by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). It’s a time to focus on building healthy, supportive environments that reduce the risk of substance use and strengthen youth well-being. For parents, this week is more than awareness—it’s an opportunity to start (or continue) meaningful conversations that can shape your child’s choices for years to come. Wh

In May, communities across the country recognize Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to elevate conversations about emotional well-being, reduce stigma, and strengthen support systems. For young people, this month is especially important. Adolescence is a critical period for mental health development, and it’s also when many risky behaviors—including substance use—can begin. Understanding how these issues connect is key to prevention. The Link Between Mental Health and Subst

Preventing child abuse and preventing youth substance use are deeply connected. Both are rooted in the same foundation: safe, stable, and nurturing relationships and environments . When young people feel supported, heard, and protected, they are significantly less likely to engage in risky behaviors—including substance use. This article explores how these two areas intersect and what families, schools, and communities can do to prevent both. Understanding the Link Research co

As much as we want to protect children, we can’t shield them from every challenge—and we shouldn’t. Life naturally comes with ups and downs. What we can do is help young people build resilience: the ability to cope with stress, learn from mistakes, and recover from difficult experiences. Resilience isn’t something a child either has or doesn’t have. It develops over time through everyday experiences, guidance, and supportive relationships with caring adults. Why Resilience Ma

Every March, communities across the U.S. observe National Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) — a time dedicated to raising awareness about gambling harm, promoting prevention, and connecting families to education and support. This movement matters because problem gambling isn’t just a “bad habit” — it can disrupt school, relationships, and overall well-being for young people .( National Council on Problem Gambling ) Why Focus on Youth Gambling? While gambling is legally

Guidance for talking with elementary, middle, and high school-aged youth. Research and experience show that open, honest, and age-appropriate conversations are one of the most effective ways to support kids as they grow and make decisions that affect their health and well-being . By starting early and keeping communication ongoing, parents and caregivers set the foundation for trust, understanding, and resilience. ( SAMHSA ) Why Early Conversations Matter Children notice more