What is Prevention?
Substance use prevention is a proactive, ongoing process that aims to prevent the initiation and progression of substance use while mitigating associated harms. It is a multidisciplinary approach that reinforces protective factors and addresses risk while promoting overall health and well-being. Prevention plays a crucial role in fostering resilience and improving public health.
What is National Substance Use Prevention Month?
The month of October signifies National Substance Use Prevention Month — a time for communities to come together as partners in prevention. This month is also a time to acknowledge those in recovery, as well as children, parents, family, and friends supporting them.
What is Red Ribbon Week?
Red Ribbon Week — recognized each year from October 23-31 — is the nation’s largest and longest-running substance use prevention campaign. Since its beginning in 1985, it has touched the lives of millions of people around the world.
Our Red Ribbon Week slogan is “Choose Your Path. Make SAFE Choices.” — this slogan reinforces our goal of ensuring people have information and tools necessary for making meaningful SAFE Choices that respect individual determination, motivation, and personal autonomy. The simple wearing of a red ribbon is a visible act that shows your support for safe and healthy choices.
Take Action
Prevention is needed now more than ever as our country works to combat the substance, overdose, and mental health crises that have seriously impacted individuals, families, and communities nationwide.
Join the No Shame Movement: There is #NoShame in getting help or in talking about mental health and addiction. Join us in creating a nationwide movement to end stigma and support others in speaking up about their own disorders — sign the No Shame Pledge today!
Sign Up to Be a SAFE Volunteer: Whether you’re a youth or adult, you can help us make a difference by volunteering with SAFE Project.
Print & Share – Have a Safety Plan: A simple, printable guide to help individuals and families create a safety plan in times of crisis.
Get Help – SAFE Treatment and Support Locator: Use this locator tool to find treatment, recovery, and support services near you.
Know Medication Safety: Learn how to safely store, manage, and dispose of medications to prevent misuse. An At-Home Drug Disposal program is a critical step in preventing misuse.
Previous Prevention Month Webinars
Free Online Training Modules
Opioid Overdose Response Training
Fentanyl Safety Training
Recovery Allyship Training