Health and Fitness : National Prevention Week

By: Jade Rawson National Substance Abuse and Mental Health prevention week is May 14th -May 20th this year. National prevention week is promoted close to summer due to the increase of substance abuse that comes with the warmer weather; activities such as prom, graduation, weddings, outdoor events, etc. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) sponsors this event each year. The first observed prevention week was back in 2012. On SAMHSA's website, they offer free planning materials for you and your organization to get involved in any way that you can. Such materials include checklists, stickers, logos, flyers, banners, tool-kit, and the contact information to let SAMHSA know about your event. The purpose for nation prevention week is to raise awareness of substance abuse and mental health issues. There are three main goals to this national prevention week. One is to involve community members in raising awareness and implementing prevention. The second is to gain partnerships with other agencies working towards the same goals in the health field. The last goal is simply to promote resources, knowing where to even start can be a challenge for some. This year's theme of prevention week is "making each day count"�. Six of the Seven days have a specific topic to follow.

Monday, May 15th is prevention of youth tobacco use.

Tuesday, May 16th is prevention of underage drinking and alcohol misuse.

Wednesday, May 17th is prevention of prescription and opioid drug misuse.

Thursday, May 18th is prevention of illicit drug and youth marijuana use.

Friday, May 19th is suicide prevention.

Saturday, May 20th is promotion of mental health and wellness.

In recognition of Nation Prevention Week take the time to seek out an event or talk with your children about drug use and mental health issues. Contact your local coalitions to see what events they may be hosting. If you are needing a list of your local coalitions you can go to http://asac.us/prevention/community-coalitions/.