One Choice Prevention Toolkit

Free Online Resource for Substance Use Prevention

One Choice is a prevention message, not a program. This Toolkit includes guidance to help you incorporate the One Choice message into existing prevention programs or new prevention initiatives.

This toolkit is a free online resource managed by the Institute for Behavior and Health.

It is designed for substance use prevention coalitions, student prevention groups and clubs, and anyone interested in reducing youth substance use.

Our Goal: Promote the health standard.
One Choice: no use of any alcohol, nicotine, marijuana, or other drugs for reasons of health.

One Choice celebrates the fact that an increasing number of young people are making the healthy decision to avoid substance use and shines a light on that trend.

Who This Is For

  • Substance use prevention coalitions

  • Student prevention groups and clubs

  • Educators and school administrators

  • Parents and guardians

  • Health professionals and counselors

  • Community leaders and organizations interested in youth substance use prevention

What’s Inside This Toolkit

Introduction

This section provides an overview of the One Choice Toolkit, its purpose, and who it is meant for. It lays the groundwork for understanding the importance of preventing youth substance use and how the toolkit can be effectively used.

A Note on Language

It emphasizes the role of language in preventing substance use and offers guidance on how to communicate effectively and sensitively about substance use and efforts to prevent it.

Brain Development

Explains the essential stages of brain development in young individuals and how substance use can interfere with these processes. This section offers scientific insights on preventing substance use during adolescence.

All Drug Use is Related

Discusses how different types of substance use are interconnected. It presents research showing that using one substance can lead to the use and dependence on others.

More Youth are Making One Choice

This section highlights the encouraging trend of more young individuals choosing not to use substances. It celebrates these healthy choices and provides examples and statistics to illustrate this positive movement.

Commercialized Recreational Pharmacology

Examines how commercial interests influence substance use, mainly through marketing and availability. This section looks at the social and economic factors that contribute to youth substance use.

Substance Use and Mental Health

Explores the connection between substance use and mental health issues in young people. It discusses the dual diagnosis of mental health and substance use disorders, emphasizing the need to address both in prevention efforts.

Campaigns and Resources

This section offers information on various campaigns and resources available to prevent substance use. It provides tools, strategies, and contacts for those who wish to engage in or support prevention activities.

An Invitation To Join the One Choice Community

We encourage readers to join the One Choice movement. The website explains how to join, the benefits of being a member, and ways to stay engaged and active in promoting substance use prevention among youth.

Like what you see? Support Our Work!

Support the One Choice prevention initiative of the Institute for Behavior and Health, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, with a tax-deductible donation.