Preventing Youth Substance Use: What Adults Need to Know
One Choice 5: Prevention Basics
Click on any of the images below for more information about the One Choice 5.
1
Know That Youth Substance Use Is NOT Inevitable
Most teens do NOT use alcohol, nicotine, marijuana, or other drugs.
2
Be Brain Development Savvy
The developing brain is uniquely vulnerable to substance use: 9 in 10 adults with a substance use disorder started using alcohol, nicotine, or marijuana before age 18
3
Be substance Savvy
For teens, all substance use is related: using any one substance dramatically increases the likelihood of using other substances
4
Talk Early and Talk Often
Prevention is not a single conversation; look for teachable moments and communicate the clear expectation of no use as the health standard for youth under age 21.
5
Act Quickly If you Suspect Use
Substance use puts teens at risk for many negative outcomes; help them make healthy choices and get support when you need it.
Download the Prevention Basics Flyer
Share with adults in your community to give them the information they need about preventing youth substance use.
Available in both English and Spanish.
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