Everyone plays a role in prevention. Small actions make a big difference. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) asks prevention advocates to pledge support and take action to prevent substance abuse and promote mental health. Here are a few steps individuals can take:
-- Talk to others about the prevention of substance use and the promotion of mental, emotional and behavioral well-being.
-- Encourage children, friends and/or family members to improve their mental, emotional, and behavioral health by promoting rest, a healthy diet, physical exercise, and time outdoors.
-- Point loved ones in the direction of resources that can help them improve their mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being.
-- Talk with a friend or loved one who has been having a difficult time and discuss things that are bothering him/her.
-- Spread the prevention message online by posting about and linking to National Prevention Week 2012 on Facebook and Twitter pages, and on a blog or Web site.
The video below, featuring Director Fran Harding of SAMHSA's Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, provides a brief overview of National Prevention Week. Director Harding also shares how communities are participating and what you can do to get involved during National Prevention Week and throughout the year.
