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SAFE Choices: Choose Knowledge

Prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery in the news

Choose knowledge and gain the power to empower with these publications, journals, and reports that pertain to youth substance prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery.

Recent Highlights

Week of December 15, 2024

Month of December — National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

Week of December 8, 2024

Month of December — National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

Week of December 1, 2024

Month of December — National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

Week of November 24, 2024

Supports for a nicotine quit journey and dealing with the mental part of quitting tobacco, nicotine, and vaping:

Current news on the topic of youth nicotine and e-cigarette use:

Week of November 17, 2024

Approaches to quitting smoking or vaping start with one day! Thursday, November 21st is the American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout — a day designed to begin a quit journey.

Week of November 10, 2024

Nearly 7 out of 10 of individuals who smoke or use vaping products wish that they could quit. Feeling overwhelmed with where to start or even how to begin the step can be daunting. The good news is that there are options and supports that can help.

Week of November 3, 2024

Quitting nicotine use (smoking, vaping, or chewing) is an individual process that begins with a single day. The American Cancer Society has no-cost resources and information on programs and supports that can help guide you on your journey to quit:

Week of October 27, 2024

Substance use prevention is a proactive, ongoing process that aims to prevent the initiation and progression of substance use while mitigating associated harms. Prevention efforts are proving effective, with substance use decreasing among adolescents, and — for the first time since 2018 — a decrease in overdose death rates. While these declines are indicative of positive progression, our work is far from over with the staggering reality that over 107,000 individuals lost their lives to overdose in the United States during 2023 alone.

Support Overdose Prevention Efforts:

Week of October 20, 2024

Closing out Prevention Month (the month of October) is Red Ribbon Week, the nation’s longest running and most recognized prevention campaign. This week carries significant meaning to the power of practicing prevention.

Since its beginning in 1985, millions of people have made the choice to wear a red ribbon. The visible gesture of pinning on a red ribbon is a step that demonstrates support of safe and healthy choices. SAFE Project’s red ribbon slogan — “CHOOSE Your Path. Make SAFE CHOICES.” — reinforces individual autonomy and the elevation of choices that are aligned with one’s health priorities.

During Prevention Month (and beyond), SAFE Project is proud to join prevention providers, educators, professionals, families, and individuals who are working to raise awareness AND encourage actions that embrace prevention as a proactive, ongoing process — a process that aims to prevent the initiation and progression of substance use while mitigating associated harms. revention is a multidisciplinary approach that reinforces protective factors and addresses risk while promoting overall health and well-being. Prevention is building refusal skills, decision-making skills, critical thinking skills, and plays a crucial role in fostering resilience and improving health outcomes. Effective prevention is ongoing throughout all phases of life and will take everyone coming together. Together, we can reduce harm and prevent illness and disease through public health approaches rooted in prevention science.

For more information and resources, visit SAFE Project’s Prevention Month page. Together, we can build a culture of prevention that extends throughout the entire year.

This month, SAFE Project is offering expert-led webinars on topics related to substance use prevention, recovery, and community support.

Week of October 13, 2024

From SAMHSA’s Blog: Collaborative Substance Use Prevention – Stronger Together
Cara Alexander, Ph.D., LCSW, BCD and Torrance Brown, Dr.P.H., M.P.H., Center for Substance Abuse Prevention

During Substance Use Prevention Month and year-round, many opportunities exist to work collaboratively (across sectors and partners) on comprehensive prevention. Prevention strengthens protective factors and reduces risk factors — in individuals, families, schools, communities, and society. These factors include social determinants of health, cultural influences, and traumatic experiences. By working together, prevention systems and programs can share resources and achieve synergies.

This blog article includes information on:

  • Strengthening Protective Factors and Reducing Risk Factors
  • Prevention Categories
  • Social Determinants of Health
  • Prevention That’s Stronger Together – gaining an understanding of the life experiences in which individuals are born and the collective actions that support ways to get ahead of challenges through upstream efforts.

Week of October 6, 2024

Bridging Prevention and recovery is what comes to mind as Recovery month (September) comes to an end and Prevention month (October) begins. A pivotal time of bringing together two separate yet complimentary fields of prevention and recovery. By coming together, we are bridging divides and empowering movement in support of health priorities and system changes that can  foster resilience and improve public health.

Resources available for you, your school and community include:

SAFE Project Bridging Prevention and Recovery (BPR)

SAFE Project Prevention Month Landing Page 

Together, we are joining forces and building a culture of prevention that extends beyond one month of the year.

Week of September 29, 2024

A message from International Day of Recovery – September 30th

“Our overarching goal is to globally connect recovering individuals, families, and communities in order to provide worldwide hope to overcome addiction. International Recovery Day connects the dots between all folks in recovery – from all recovery pathways – all around the globe – all in one day: September 30th.” Steering Committee

A message from Mobilize Recovery:

The Mobilize Recovery Across America 2024 Bus Tour is more than just a series of events; it’s a clarion call to unite in the face of addiction. It’s an invitation to challenge stigmas, to share stories of hope, and to empower individuals, families, and communities to embrace the transformative power of recovery. Whether you’re in recovery, supporting a loved one, or simply passionate about making a difference, we urge you to join us on this remarkable journey.

Let’s come together to create a wave of compassion and understanding that sweeps across the nation. Let’s celebrate the courage of those in recovery, honor the resilience of families impacted by addiction, and ignite a movement that transforms lives.

Stay connected with us as we share updates, event details, and inspiring stories from the road. Together, we’ll create a ripple effect of hope and healing that will resonate across the nation!

As the Mobilize Recovery Across America 2024 Bus Tour prepares to embark on its transformative journey, we invite you to open your hearts and minds to the possibilities that lie ahead. This is more than just a tour; it’s a testament to the enduring human spirit, a celebration of resilience, and a beacon of hope for a brighter future.

Get ready to be inspired, empowered, and forever changed.

Week of September 22, 2024

Recovery is not only possible, it’s probable. Knowing where to go when seeking treatment is paramount. Everyone’s path to recovery is different. Ensuring support and resources are provided along the journey builds hope for each step – whether it’s the 1st or the 10,000th step, no one should have to go it alone. Find a treatment facility that matches your needs by visiting the SAFE Locator for treatment, support, and recovery housing listings.

September 26th is Save A Life Day (Free Naloxone Day). Last year, all 13 Appalachian states joined together and distributed over 45,000 naloxone doses in a single day. This year, over 300 counties from over 30 states are signed up to participate. Support Recovery Month by learning steps to save a life by learning how to administer naloxone and carrying this life saving medication.

Week of September 15, 2024

During Recovery Month, you can build hope by showing your support to individuals who are struggling with active substance use through advocacy and action that demonstrates compassion, kindness and care.

For more information on normalizing recovery and de-stigmatizing addiction check out Faces and Voices of Recovery for field-related public policy updates.

Learn more about advocacy and action by registering for SAFE Project’s free Recovery Month webinars:

Week of September 8, 2024

This Recovery Month, make a conscious choice to meet individuals where they are without blame, shame, or judgement. Begin by broadening your understanding:

Week of September 1, 2024

September is National Recovery Month, a month of reflection, celebration, and advocacy in support of all aspects of recovery — a month to acknowledge the profound strength and resilience of individuals in recovery, to honor their journeys, and to amplify the message that recovery is possible. There are 23 million Americans living in long-term sustained recovery. Throughout the month, SAFE Project will feature their testimonies of hope, happiness, and healing.

Harvest hope and combat stigma this recovery month — take SAFE Project’s No Shame Pledge as an active advocate for recovery in all its forms.

Week of August 25, 2024

Preparing for back to school: a message for students, parents, guardians and faculty of higher education

Mental Health check-ins and conversations around substance use and misuse are just as important beyond high school! Young adults ages 18 to 25 make up 11.1% of the more than 7.7 million drug-related annual emergency room visits in the United States, and they have the highest rate of cannabis-related ER visits, according to a 2023 report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, or SAMHSA.

In an ever-changing landscape, it’s worth exploring the myths and realities around college drug use and student mental health to keep the students in your life safer and healthier and on the road to academic achievements.

For more information, reach out to SAFE Project’s SAFE Campuses initiative.

Week of August 18, 2024

Preparing for back to school: a message for school personnel
Welcome Back to School! Teachers, your role is invaluable!

School educators play a critical role in promoting students’ health and development–an invaluable protective factor. When youth feel connected to their school, they are less likely to experience poor mental health, sexual health risks, substance use, and violence. Simply stated, youth do better when they feel genuinely seen, heard, and cared about from their school teachers! This sense of belonging has a myriad of benefits far beyond the classroom. Here’s to a great school year filled with meaningful and empowering connections where youth are inspired to achieve their fullest potential.

Literature and resources for the journey:

Week of August 11, 2024

Preparing for back to school: a message for youth and young adults

This school year, let SAFE Project get you connected. A healthy life-fueling connection is one of the best protective factors to buffer against risks of substance use or misuse, as well as mental health challenges. SAFE Choices, the youth and young adult portfolio at SAFE Project, has tools and resources to help get and keep you connected.

The Youth VOICE Council (YVC) provides SAFE Project’s youth volunteers a platform for expanding knowledge around addiction, substance use, mental health challenges, stigma, overdose prevention, primary prevention, advocacy, and allyship. Members are empowered and equipped to use their voices and passion to make a positive difference for shared solutions.

  • VOICE stands for: Volunteer, Opportunity, Inspire, Connect, Empower
  • YVC Motto: Creating the Space for Connection, Collaboration and Action!
  • YVC MISSION: Bringing youth together into the discussions and engaged in actions that create shared solutions on important topics of interest around substance use and mental health matters.

The YVC is a diverse group of high school students from across the country who have expressed interest in becoming a student ambassador with SAFE Project, a national nonprofit dedicated to stopping the addiction fatality epidemic currently facing our country. YVC provides opportunities for members to learn and lead.

Throughout the year, YVC members take part in monthly meetings and engage in initiatives and programming of their choice at the school, community, and national level. Examples include but are not limited to: school/community service projects, school based programming, community forums and town halls, prevention campaigns, messaging, research projects, and advocacy. Learn more and register for the YVC on our “Volunteer” page.

Additional Resource:

Natural High Storytellers — making pro health connections through personal passions (documentaries of real people who overcame struggles and achieve natural highs by making life affirming choices driven by their personal passions).

Week of August 4, 2024

Preparing for back to school: a message for parents, guardians, and caretakers

August is a month of much anticipation around the start of another school year for students and their caretakers alike. SAFE Choices, the youth and young adult centered portfolio at SAFE Project, is here to help with back-to-school tips and ways to support your students’ overall mental health.

#1: Adults are a leading protective factor — a buffer against risks by simply being present and showing kind and compassionate care. A big hug, a gentle smile, and/or a word of encouragement can make all the difference.

#2: Be as informed as possible. Youth report that caregivers, healthcare professionals, and educators as some of the most credible sources of substance use related information and mental health providers of support.

#3: Have frequent, small conversations. Start conversations early and tailor them to the age and needs of the child.

Week of July 28, 2024

Marijuana – “Legal” or not is a HOT topic!

Week of July 21, 2024

Marijuana – “Legal” or not is a HOT topic!

From Partnership to End Addiction — a web-based resources containing pertinent subject matter information for parents, guardians, and caretakers of youth:

Week of July 14, 2024

Marijuana – “Legal” or not is a HOT topic!

National Marijuana Fact week — created by Johnny’s Ambassadors — was recognized during the week of July 4-10. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to providing education and support to anyone who wants to know more about the risks associated with teen marijuana use and the impact of high-THC marijuana on developing adolescent brains.

“I want you to know you were right. You told me marijuana would hurt my brain. It’s ruined my mind and my life, and I’m sorry. I love you.” — Johnny Stack to his mother, three days before he died by suicide

Additional Resource: Not just weed – four times more dangerous in 3 decades

Week of July 7, 2024

Marijuana – “Legal” or not is a HOT topic!

Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM) – Rates of Marijuana Use in Young People & Lessons Learned from State Marijuana Legalization

Week of June 30, 2024

Marijuana – “Legal” or not is a HOT topic!

Week of June 23, 2024

Staying active and engaged with peers over the summer months are important steps in supporting youth mental health. Peer relationships are recognized as powerful for youth development and growth. However, far too often, the connotation is one viewed from a negative lens versus a positive one — one of risk versus life-fueling reward. The Search Institute partnered with youth researchers and youth volunteers to conduct a study on the positive development that grows out of peer-to-peer relationships as well as the role that educators and out-of-school youth serving practitioners have – not as the “experts” but rather as mentors, guides, teachers, and facilitators of context.

This summer, get intentional about nurturing and growing strong, positive peer-to-peer relationships. Learn more in this blog post published by The Search Institute.

Week of June 16, 2024

Father’s Day: A Story of Recovery

Joseph Green is a father, a storyteller, narrative disruptor, author, and a person who is in sustained recovery from a substance use disorder and mental illness. In February 2024, Joseph sat down with SAFE Project for an interview about his new book which was about to be released to the world, Talk Ugly & Other Poems. During our talk, Joseph shared that the poem, Life is Short is about his relationship with his father and how the words of the poem are a cry out to himself and his father to heal their relationship before it was too late. In the book, Joseph depicts his journey from a shy young boy to a man who must face harsh truths. On each page, readers will be moved by profound vivid words and images about human struggle and the beauty of healing. It is one of those books that once you begin to read it, you can’t put it down.

Week of June 9, 2024

SAFE Project operations include four distinct initiatives, one of which is SAFE Veterans: a portfolio designed specifically with veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. Research shows that a veteran is twice as likely to experience an accidental fatal overdose than any other member of society. For veterans and their families, the transition to civilian life can be particularly difficult, with the veteran often losing the sense of purpose, camaraderie, and identity central to their military experience. Military culture also values self-reliance, which can lead to the perception that “getting help” is a weakness.

Week of June 2, 2024

  • From SAFE Project — The advancement of Prevention & Harm Reduction within the LGBTQ+ Community
  • From SAMHSA — Honoring Pride Month by offering emotional support and by providing mental health and substance use resources for LGBTQI+ individuals, friends, families, communities, providers, and more
  • From the Trevor Project — You deserve a loving world and so do the people you care about

Week of May 27, 2024

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! In a time of crisis, call or text 988.

SAFE Project stands solid on the view that there is no shame in asking for and receiving help for mental health challenges. Children and young people in the U.S. are experiencing an unprecedented mental health crisis with the number of individuals diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions continuing to increase. An estimated one in five youth has a diagnosable mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder with many not receiving professional services to help. In 2020, SAFE launched the No Shame Pledge as a way to provide large-scale stigma reduction education and empower advocacy and action on the topic. During National Mental Health Awareness Month, we are inviting individuals from across America to join the “No Shame Movement” by taking the No Shame Pledge.

To expand your understanding of the principles in the No Shame Pledge you can access the No Shame Education Program, as well. Upon completion, individuals will be able to sign the No Shame Pledge as advocates with a clear understanding of stigma reducing facts and sources of help!

Another way to show support: get trained in Mental Health First Aid, an evidence-based, early intervention course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use challenges.

Week of May 19, 2024

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! In a time of crisis, call or text 988.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a national organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. Their Alliance includes more than 700 NAMI State Organizations and Affiliates who work in communities across the country to raise awareness and provide support and education to individuals affected by mental health challenges.

Since its inception in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has been a cornerstone of addressing the challenges faced by millions of Americans living with mental health conditions. Throughout May, NAMI actively participates in this national movement, dedicated to eradicating stigma, extending support, fostering public education and advocating for policies. For more resources and ideas on how you can show your support, check out NAMI’s 2024 Mental Health Awareness Toolkit. Remember that it is OK to not be OK — seeking and receiving help is a brave first step.

Especially for the Teens & Young Adults, NAMI offers a direct HELPLine that provides a connection with another young person who shares similar experiences and is prepared to offer information, resources, and support to help you move through difficult times to a better place. Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), text “Friend” to 62640, or chat with then at nami.org/talktous. The line is available Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. eastern time.

Week of May 12, 2024

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! In a time of crisis, call or text 988.

Throughout the month of May, The National Federation of Families — in the advancement of their vision — is inviting all to #AcceptAdvocateAct to show the world the importance of cultivating empathy, understanding, and acceptance of individuals with mental health and/or substance use challenges. Together, we can unite to honor those who laid the stones of awareness in the past, and shine light on the steps yet needed towards social justice and equality for all families!

Week of May 5, 2024

To attain a higher level of understanding and to broaden your knowledge base, consider accessing the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Mental Health Awareness Toolkit. The toolkit is a cost-free resource that is user friendly and packed with ready-to-use tools.

Week of April 28, 2024

In honor of April being Alcohol Awareness Month, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMSHA) developed a Social Media Toolkit to amplify messaging on alcohol misuse as well as recovery supports.

Additional Resources:

Week of April 21, 2024

To raise awareness about alcohol-related harms and the importance of alcohol policy safeguards, the Prevention Technology Transfer Center (PTTC) has launched the Alcohol Awareness Toolkit.

Week of April 14, 2024

CDC reports indicate that alcohol-related deaths are on the rise in the United States.

Week of April 7, 2024

April is Alcohol Awareness Month. In the midst of an opioid epidemic, our society is simultaneously facing an alcohol epidemic.

Week of March 31, 2024

Build Knowledge and Fuel Your Mind!

CDC Research Examines Characteristics of Drug and Alcohol Use in Minors
Recent findings from a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) assessment on adolescent drug use suggest that the most commonly reported reasons for substance use is stress-related motivations. CDC reviewed characteristics of teen drug use from January 2014 through September 2022. Among participants ages 13 to 18, 73% of teens used drugs to feel more mellow, calm, and relaxed and to help with sleep. Research also showed that 44% indicated use to stop worrying or forget about bad memories, and 40% to help with anxiety or depression. Researchers collected responses from the National Addictions Vigilance Intervention and Prevention Program’s Comprehensive Health Assessment for Teens (CHAT). Of the 15,693 CHAT assessments, 84% reported the use of marijuana, 49% used alcohol, 21% used other non-prescription drug use, 19% prescription drug use, and 11% used sedatives and tranquilizers. Also, 9% of teens reported prescription stimulant misuse, 8% had used methamphetamine, 7% had misused cough syrup, and 6% had partaken in hallucinogens.

Week of March 24, 2024

Alcohol is the most widely used substance among America’s youth, causing serious health and safety risks for young developing brains and bodies. Test your knowledge on the topic of underage drinking in a new NIAAA Kahoot! quiz. Additional resources on the topic include:

Week of March 17, 2024

This week is National Drug and Alcohol Fact Week – build knowledge and fuel your mind!

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has a new Kahoot teaching tool that features facts on how to prevent an overdose! Test teens’ knowledge on what causes drug overdoses and how to save a life using naloxone. The new NIDA Kahoot! quiz covers health risks associated with drug use, and how you as a bystander could help save the life of someone experiencing an overdose

From SAFE Project: What is Naloxone? What Should I do if I witness an Overdose?

In recent news: Biden-Harris Administration Launches the White House Challenge to Save Lives from Overdose

Week of March 10, 2024

Check out NIDA’s science-based resource, the Mind Matters series. This is a learning series for middle schoolers that creatively takes students on a journey to learn more about the brain’s complex response to various drugs.

Additional resources from SAFE Project:

Week of March 3, 2024

Build knowledge and fuel your Mind! Start planning for National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week from March 18-24, 2024. Follow NIDA’s five planning steps to help maximize the success of your NDAFW activity or event.

 

 

Additional resources from SAFE Project:

Week of February 25, 2024

In closing out the month of February, SAFE Project looks back at our interviews with three amazing authors who shared stories based on their lived experiences and expert training. These powerful stories encapsulate hope and truths about overcoming and development of resiliency:

A common message can be found in all: that is it is OK to not be OK, and that seeking help and support is a brave step and not one that should be laden with shame or stigma. To help combat stigma, join SAFE Project’s #NoShame Movement.

From the National Center on Substance Abuse and Child Welfare: Disrupting Stigma (PDF)

Week of February 18, 2024

Every day SAFE Project takes steps to support individuals impacted by substance use and mental health challenges via education on stigma, development and support of prevention and recovery programs, through overdose prevention efforts, and by eliminating barriers to treatment.

During the month of February, we are featuring several authors who have written books that align with our work. This week’s feature is Joseph Green, author of Talk Ugly and Other Poems.

Here is a quote from our interview with Joseph: “One of the universal things that I think from every generation of humans ever is the need and the desire for connection. No matter what was happening, we always needed to be connected to other human beings in meaningful and authentic love.”

In direct parallel, SAFE Project has developed a universal educational program on this very topic entitled the “Connections” Program. This program is centered on life-fueling connections, self-discovery, coping and essential life skills that improve youth outcomes and is available upon request from interested schools and communities.

Week of February 11, 2024

Building connection and empathy through storytelling is a SAFE Project founding principle. Stories serve as a powerful tool: they unite, calm and comfort, inspire, create the space for dreams, instill hope, and offer help and direction. All of these will be focal points in an upcoming workshop planned in collaboration with author Rosi Greenberg. The workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at 7:30pm ET. Rosi will share excerpts from her book, Everyone has a Sam, and provide insight and support to overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Don’t let self-doubt hold you back: embark on a journey of self-discovery and mental health empowerment.

Week of February 4, 2024

SAFE Project is kicking off the 2024 Children’s Authors and Illustrators week by featuring Matt Bellace, Ph.D. who authored two books: A Better High and Life is Disappointing… and Other Inspiring Thoughts. Matt has a unique skill set having a Ph.D. in clinical psychology with a subspecialty in clinical neuropsychology. He’s been a professional speaker and standup comedian for over two decades, reaching over a hundred thousand youth and adults a year. He is super passionate about mental health and uses humor stemming from his own life circumstances in his onstage messages and in his books. Through his unique style — a human being human — Matt’s messages are so real and truly applicable.

Week of January 28, 2024

By joining our No Shame New Year campaign, you too can join the charge in combating stigma and demonstrating support for the 46.3. million Americans that have a substance use disorder, as well as the 1 in 5 U.S. adults and the 1 in 6 U.S. youth that are affected by mental health challenges.

Take the #NoShame Pledge and commit to doing your part to stopping the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health challenges by empowering others while encouraging care, treatment, and recovery.

SAFE Project offers advocacy resources that are ready-made tools to assist you in having an active voice in stopping the cycle and impact of the perpetuating silence around addiction and mental health:

  • No Shame Education Program — To build knowledge on each of the four principles on the pledge to develop a stronger foundation and facts for informed advocacy efforts.
  • No Shame Media toolkit — Turnkey media graphics for use in communicating a #NoShame stance. Your passion through advocacy efforts can truly make a difference, and together we can make an even bigger impact in stopping the addiction fatality epidemic and related mental health matters.

Other advocacy resources from partners in the field:

Week of January 21, 2024

This year, choose a resolution with a big impact. Join SAFE Project and the 1,000’s who are participating in No Shame New Year — together making the commitment to end the stigma around substance use and mental health disorders.

No Shame Pledge – Principle #4: For individuals in recovery, I pledge to support them through their lifelong journey to a self-directed, safe, productive and successful life.

Recovery from addiction and mental health challenges involves a “process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self- directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.” (SAMHSA’s working definition) You can be a source of hope and inspiration by first knowing and accepting recovery as an extremely personal journey, one that will take time, and involves the stages of change. Change happens for everyone through stages. To better understand behavioral change, check out:

Additional Reading:

Week of January 14, 2024

Together, we can conquer the shame that accompanies substance use disorder and mental health conditions and open doors to help, support, and treatments.

No Shame Pledge – Principle #3: I will encourage individuals to seek the help and treatment needed to address addiction and mental health challenges by providing a shame-free environment.

Make a conscious choice to meet individuals where they are without blame, shame, or judgement equates to healing, growth and wellness. Seeking help on a recovery journey requires a lot of courage, strength, and fortitude. Recognizing and applauding positive change and progress goes a long way.

Additional Reading:

Week of January 7, 2024

This January, SAFE Project is kicking off the new year with the No Shame New Year campaign, a chance to learn and take action around addiction and mental health. Check out these “Choose Knowledge” segments over the course of the next four weeks to gain knowledge on each of the principles listed on the No Shame Pledge.

No Shame Pledge – Principle #2: I commit to learning more about the disease of addiction, the mental health challenges that contribute to it, and to changing the conversation surrounding it.

Learning more about the complex disease of addiction — and mental health challenges that can contribute to it — is a vital step in changing the conversation. Both addiction and mental health challenges are largely misunderstood and mistakenly perceived as lack of willpower and poor moral character and principle. Substance addiction, for example, changes the brain; this makes it hard to quit even for people who really want to do so. The good news is that people can and do recover.

Additional Reading:

Week of December 31, 2023

Make a mindful choice to meet individuals where they are without blame, shame, or judgement equates to healing, growth, and wellness.

SAFE Project invites you to participate in No Shame New Year. Check out Choose Knowledge segments over the course of the next four weeks to gain knowledge on each of the principles listed on the No Shame Pledge.

No Shame Pledge – Principle #1: I understand that addiction is a disease, and I pledge to eliminate the stigma for individuals experiencing it.

To understand addiction as a disease it is helpful to first understand addiction. Addiction as defined by Merriam-Webster dictionary is a compulsive, chronic, physiological, or psychological need for a habit-forming substance, behavior, or activity having harmful physical, psychological, or social effects and typically causing well-defined symptoms upon withdrawal or abstinence.

Additional Reading:

Week of December 24, 2023

Search for treatment and support all in one convenient website! This week, SAFE Project joined with Get Help and Partnership to End Addiction to reintroduce the SAFE Locator – a first-of-its-kind national resource hub. With just one click, you can access vital support for substance use disorder, family assistance, treatment options, and our latest addition: recovery housing!

Week of December 17, 2023

In 2021, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an average of 292 Americans died from drug overdoses every day. The impact is profound for close friends and family, and reaches far beyond to communities at large. It will take everyone coming together to combat this epidemic.

  • In this C-SPAN interview, the Washington Journal speaks with the Director of Addiction & Public Policy Initiative from Georgetown University O’Neill Institute about the response of federal, state, and local governments to the Drug Addiction and Fentanyl Crisis.
  • The Biden Administration has announced a new financial strike force to curb deadly fentanyl trade.
  • With fentanyl changing the drug use landscape so must our response to the way we talk to young people. Song For Charlie has created a resource for parents, guardians, and caretakers that includes tips for “The NEW Drug Talk”.

Week of December 10, 2023

Week of December 3, 2023

Armed with life-saving facts about naloxone, these youth and adults are taking steps to save lives by breaking the silence and adopting policies and protocols.

Students in Arizona are reducing fentanyl overdoses with a marketing project that has become a nationally-recognized, peer-to-peer fentanyl awareness campaign called “No Second Chance.” This program is led by four students from two Tempe, Arizona schools. These brave students are breaking the deadly silence by standing up and speaking out, traveling together across their state as hosts to parent and community presentations where they are sharing life saving-knowledge about Good Samaritan laws, commonly laced recreational and counterfeit prescription drugs, and naloxone (a.ka. under the brand name Narcan), the overdose reversal medication.

School nurses are also taking action! The National Association of School Nurses has developed and released a Naloxone Education Toolkit specifically geared to assist school nurses in their role of promoting student health and well-being. In the call of duty, nurses are trained in emergency preparedness, often being the first to respond on school campuses to health emergencies including drug overdoses. The toolkit has three sections: creating a naloxone program in your school, campus protocols for emergency naloxone administration, and communication resources.

Week of November 26, 2023

Results from the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health show that 48.7 million (more than 1 in 6) people aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder in the past year. Of the 48.7 million, 6.1 million people reported an opioid use disorder.

With no time to waste when responding to an overdose, bystanders can make a life-saving difference by getting trained on how to use and actually carrying the life saving medication naloxone. In this letter to schools, the Office of National Drug Control Policy and the Department of Education is urging all schools to carry naloxone and to train faculty and students on its use.

Week of November 19, 2023

Opioid related overdose is a public health crisis, and youth have not been spared with fatal overdose rates the highest for young people ages 14-18. Opioid overdose recognition and response is the first defense.

Week of November 12, 2023

Week of November 5, 2023

With youth fatal drug overdoses rapidly rising, SAFE Project wants to provide you and the youth you care about with facts and conversation starters that could save a life. Open conversations based on truths and facts are most effective. Putting scare tactics aside and engaging with open dialogue will lead to healthier growth in all stages of youth development.

Week of October 29, 2023

Though Prevention Month has come to a close, we continue to integrate youth prevention into all months of the year, promoting healthy choices and behaviors that prevent illness and disease through a public health approach rooted in the science of prevention.

Week of October 22, 2023

Everyone has a role in prevention. You can help spread the good news about the power of prevention!

It’s officially Red Ribbon Week. Celebrated across the country, it is the nation’s longest running and most recognized prevention campaign.

SAFE Project invites you to make the choice to get involved in supporting pro-health actions, both this week and throughout the entire year! Engaging resources have been assembled in our Championing Prevention Toolkit.

“Choose Your Path. Make SAFE Choices.” is our red ribbon slogan – a proactive motto that reinforces the promotion of healthy behaviors and lifestyles. Because it will take everyone coming together to make a difference, it is important that we work collectively to prevent illness and disease through a public health approach rooted in prevention science.

Week of October 15, 2023

Effective parenting has been shown to mediate the effects of risk factors associated with youth substance use and mental health. This prevention month, you can learn more about the power of prevention and the positive impact of protective factors. The presence of protective factors in the home, school and community reduce the likelihood of negative outcomes brought about by risk factors.

Week of October 8, 2023

SAFE Project with our partners from RISE TOGETHER are igniting the power of prevention during October and throughout the entire year. We are visiting schools and communities to present the “We Are Not Alone Tour,” together empowering all to take an active role in prevention. Through community-driven strategy and person-centered approaches, our organizations provide support and resources that:

  1. Elevate youth voices
  2. Educate youth on advocacy
  3. Inspire youth allyship

Week of October 1, 2023

Bridging prevention and recovery is what comes to mind as Recovery Month (September) comes to an end and Prevention Month (October) begins. This is a pivotal time to bring together two separate — yet complementary — fields. By coming together, we are bridging divides and empowering movement in support of health priorities and systems changes. Resources available for you and your school and community include:

Week of September 24, 2023

The journey to and through recovery is just as unique as the individual. With the recognition of recovery as a reality, together we can instill hope and ensure no one has to go it alone.

Week of September 17, 2023

SAFE Project is honored to join all impacted individuals as they come together during Recovery Month to spread the positive messages that behavioral health is essential to overall health, prevention works, treatment is effective, and people can and do recover.

Together, through community driven strategies and person-centered approaches, we are:

  • increasing understanding of mental health and substance use disorders;
  • celebrating individuals in recovery;
  • endorsing recovery as a reality;
  • providing education on sources of help; and
  • sharing inspiring messages of hope.

For more information, browse our full website and follow us on all social media outlets (@safeprojectus).

Week of September 10, 2023

There is no shame in asking for and receiving help for mental health challenges and addiction. During Recovery Month, take action to combat stigma and harvest hope by signing SAFE Project’s No Shame Pledge!

Additional resources available by SAFE Project at no cost to you include the No Shame Education Program and our No Shame Media Toolkit. Together, we can take life-saving steps to Stop the Addiction Fatality Epidemic and promote recovery in all forms.

Week of September 3, 2023

Individuals across the country are coming together during the month of September to celebrate Recovery Month and to increase awareness of recovery as a reality.

The time is now to create a community of healing by making a conscious choice to meet individuals where they are without blame, shame, or judgement. Together, showing compassion and collaborating, we can Stop the Addiction Fatality Epidemic.

Learn more about Recovery Month, including valuable resources and social media graphics to help share your story.

Visit Faces and Voices of Recovery for highlights of nationwide collaborative efforts focused on the motto: “Every Person. Every Family. Every Community!”

Week of August 27, 2023

Together, through effective collaborations, we can cultivate resilience and promote wellness across all school years.

To help those engaged with the youth sector — parents, guardians, caretakers as well as schools and youth serving organizations — SAFE Project is happy to provide SAFE Solutions, a one-of-a-kind, online resource that consists of educational materials, innovative approaches, and researched best practices curated by national subject matter experts in addressing challenges pertaining to mental health and substance use disorders.

Find solutions filtered by desired outcomes and/or on the continuum of care (prevention, early intervention, harm reduction, treatment, recovery, and systems).

Week of August 20, 2023

It is never too early to have conversations about health affirming choices. A focused and factual conversation about drugs of abuse and mental health can make all the difference in the life of a child.

Week of August 13, 2023

There is no shame in asking for and receiving help for a substance addiction or mental health conditions. SAFE Project’s No Shame Movement and Education Program can help break the silence by providing the tools for shame-free, life-changing — and quite possibly life-saving — conversations.

Join the No Shame Movement to combat stigma, a leading barrier to seeking help, this school year. Invite your child’s school, teachers, and counselors to join the charge as well. Together, we can empower our youth towards health-affirming choices.

Week of August 6, 2023

With fatal teen overdoses soaring and the mental health crisis among our youth declared a national emergency, we urge you to have intentional and honest conversations with your young loved ones about their mental health and addiction throughout the entire school year.

Week of July 30, 2023

With youth fatal drug overdoses on the rise, SAFE Project wants to provide you — and the youth you care about — with facts and conversation starters that could save a life. Open conversations based on truths are most effective. Putting scare tactics aside and engaging in open dialogue leads to healthier growth in all stages of youth development.

Week of July 23, 2023

Mental health affects how we think, feel, and act. It determines how we handle life situations and circumstances, including how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.

Together we can break the barrier for the 1 in 5 adults and 1 in 6 youth in the United States affected by mental health challenges. These fact sheets and consumer reports are provided for a better understanding of the barriers encountered due in part to poor social determinants of health for racial and ethnic minority populations.

Take a stance in support of impacted individuals. Join SAFE Project’s No Shame Movement and be a part of nationwide efforts to end stigma, another leading barrier to adequate mental health care.

Week of July 16, 2023

This month SAFE Project is recognizing National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month and helping to spread the word about achieving better health through better understanding for racial and ethnic minority communities. You can join in advocacy and awareness steps by using the media tools provided by the Office of Minority Health.

Week of July 9, 2023

Racial and ethnic minority youth face unique struggles linked to mental health challenges. You can help address these challenges and the associated stigma through the use of tools including:

  • Office of Mental Health Knowledge Center/Online Catalog — Offered through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Minority Health (OMH). Explore resources on how to avoid and address mental health stigma in minority communities. Sort search results by racial/ethnic population, type of mental health concern, keywords, and more.

Week of July 2, 2023

Throughout July, join SAFE Project as we observe National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month and the unique struggles that racial and ethnic minority youth face regarding mental health conditions.

Week of June 25, 2023

SAFE Project is joining our partners from RISE TOGETHER in offering a “RISE Resilient” series. The series will consist of weekly YouTube messages containing support for personal wellness. Additionally, ideas and suggestions for healthy alternative activities will be shared that create opportunities to recalibrate and build confidence and resilience while supporting personal mental health and overall wellness.

Week of June 18, 2023

SAFE Project is joining our partners from RISE TOGETHER in offering a “RISE Resilient” series. The series will consist of weekly YouTube messages containing support for personal wellness. Additionally, ideas and suggestions for healthy alternative activities will be shared that create opportunities to recalibrate and build confidence and resilience while supporting personal mental health and overall wellness.

Week of June 11, 2023

SAFE Project is joining our partners from RISE TOGETHER in offering a “RISE Resilient” series. The series will consist of weekly YouTube messages containing support for personal wellness. Additionally, ideas and suggestions for healthy alternative activities will be shared that create opportunities to recalibrate and build confidence and resilience while supporting personal mental health and overall wellness.

  • Week 2 – “Fun and Healthy Alternatives” — This week will focus on promoting fun and healthy alternatives to substance use — such as engaging in physical activity, creative hobbies, or social activities with friends — as well as tips on how to incorporate healthy choices as a mechanism for managing stress and challenges.

Week of June 4, 2023

SAFE Project is joining our partners from RISE TOGETHER in offering a “RISE Resilient” series. The series will consist of weekly YouTube messages containing support for personal wellness. Additionally, ideas and suggestions for healthy alternative activities will be shared that create opportunities to recalibrate and build confidence and resilience while supporting personal mental health and overall wellness.

Week of May 28, 2023

Mental Health conditions and substance addiction often go hand in hand. For a better understanding and to learn myth-busting facts, check out these sites:

Week of May 21, 2023

Mental health is health! In support and recognition of Mental Health Awareness month in May, SAFE Project aims to increase awareness about the vital role mental health plays in our overall health and well-being with the No Shame Movement.

Cristina Leal is a crisis counselor in California. She discusses the current mental health crisis in America, and how we can best support our students as they grow into young adults. SAFE Solutions is your free mental health and substance use disorder strategy and research one-stop shop. Additionally, find a treatment facility that matches your needs or the needs of a loved one with our SAFE Treatment and Family Support Locator.

By calling or texting 988, you’ll by connected with mental health professionals with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This three-digit number provides a nationwide connection to a network of professionals that helps people overcome crisis situations.

Week of May 14, 2023

According to the 2020 national survey on drug use and health, 40.3 million Americans had a substance use disorder in the past year, and millions were simultaneously impacted by mental health conditions: 1 in 5 U.S. adults and 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17.

On average, impacted individuals wait 11 years from onset of the symptoms before reaching out for help, and only 18.5% who need treatment are receiving it.

Stigma is one of the leading reasons that individuals do not seek help for substance use disorder and/or mental health conditions. Stigma barricades people from and the tools that can help them on their individual road to recovery.

During the Mental Health Awareness month, SAFE project invites you to join the No Shame Movement. Take a no shame stance – advocate for change, stand up and speak out to combat stigma and make a lifesaving difference.

No Shame Movement Resources brought to you by SAFE Project:

Week of May 7, 2023

This week is Children’s Mental Health Acceptance Week, National Prevention Week, as well as Mother’s Day! In recognition of these meaningful events, SAFE Project is featuring author and mother Trish Luna alongside her new book, Lambi Learns About Addiction: A Book About Prevention. Join this mother and all her readers in creating a safe space for difficult conversations where the silence due to stigma and shame are broken and the power of prevention and self care are elevated.

Week of April 30, 2023

Additional resources for candid conversations about alcohol:

Week of April 23, 2023

Additional resources for candid conversations about alcohol:

Week of April 16, 2023

Resources for candid conversations about alcohol:

Week of April 9, 2023

Getting the facts right about alcohol use brings validity to the conversation. Waiting until high school or college is often too late. Talk early and often about adverse risks of underage alcohol consumption. Here are some resources for candid conversations about alcohol:

Week of April 2, 2023

April is National Alcohol Awareness month, which marks a time to have candid conversations about alcohol.

Week of March 26, 2023

National Drug and Alcohol Fact Week for 2023 may have come to an end, but with the realization that “Knowledge is Power to Empower,” arming you with life-saving facts remains our ongoing work. Check out these face-filled resources.

Week of March 19, 2023

This week is National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW), an observance that inspires discussion about the science of drug use and addiction among youth. It was launched in 2010 by scientists at the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) to bring awareness to what science has taught us about drug use and addiction. This special week brings together scientists, students, educators, parents, healthcare providers, and community members to help advance scientific facts relevant in combating youth drug and alcohol use, misuse, and abuse.

Week of March 12, 2023

In recognition of National Drug and Alcohol Facts week, SAFE Project shares facts on fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is 50-100 times stronger than morphine. Fentanyl overdoses are skyrocketing, with the fastest growing age group being teenagers. Get the facts for a life-saving conversation today.

Week of March 5, 2023

In recognition of National Drug and Alcohol Facts week from March 20-26, SAFE Project is honored to provide these lessons learned segments as tools to assist in gaining facts that can inspire lifesaving dialogue and support holistic wellness.

Week of February 26, 2023

Children’s Authors and Illustrators Week continues throughout the entire month of February here at SAFE Project! Our third interview is with Trish Luna, author of Timbi Talks About Addiction. Trish was kind enough to sit down with SAFE Project to talk about Timbi, as well as share advice for parents on how to broach the subjects of addiction with very young children.

Trish wrote this book, initially titled My Daddy Has A Problem, when she was challenged with finding ways to communicate to her very young children about what was going on with their father. Feeling isolated and carrying the weight of stigma, she found comfort in relaying kind words in a rhythmic pattern to her children about a very complicated situation.

When she could not find a publisher willing to work with her on such a book, she put the book aside as her children grew. Years later, facing a very similar set of circumstance but this time with her grandchildren, she pulled the book back out. Seeking advice from individuals in the field, Trish renamed the book and was successful in finding a publisher willing to work with her. Today, this beautiful book written specifically to help the youngest and often the silent victims of addiction, Timbi Talks About Addiction, is comforting children in homes and in schools across the country.

This is a true example of how stories connect us, how they transcend generations, and engage us through human emotional connection. Through stories we can share our passions, sadness, hardships, joy, and our hopes.

Week of February 19, 2023

In an extension of national Children’s Authors and Illustrators week, SAFE Project will continue to bring awareness to authors who write books on substance addiction and mental health with a target audience of young children and youth.

SAFE Project was founded on the principle of storytelling and incorporates stories often throughout our initiatives and lines of operation. Stories help individuals make meaning of life. They help explain how things work, how we make decisions, how we encourage others, how we understand our place in the world, and they help create our identities while defining and teaching principle, value, and worth.

SAFE Project recently sat down with Melody Ray, Author of Someone I Love Died From a Drug Overdose. As a grief counselor, Melody has witnessed the devastating impact that children experience when they lose someone to a substance overdose. Having few resources on the topic for young children, she took her lived experience and authored a beautiful book on the topic.

Week of February 12, 2023

This year’s theme for Black History Month is “Black Resistance,” which calls on us all to study and honor the ways Black people have lifted and protected Black lives in the fight for justice, and in order to establish safe spaces where Black life can be fortified and respected.

At SAFE Project we recognize that the Black community has been underserved and criminalized in our nation’s approach to substance use disorders and continues to be excluded from many recovery supports. Through reflecting on the many ways that racism and substance use stigma have often been paired in our nation’s history, we can all find a role in creating a more equitable future.

We are committed to utilizing our platforms to amplify Black voices and the invaluable role that Black Resistance will play in the undoing of the addiction fatality epidemic. We are also committed to looking inward at the ways we have contributed to oppression, learn from the discomfort that brings, and move forward with humility and a growth mindset. Stay tuned as we share resources, recovery stories from the Black community, and more.

Week of February 5, 2023

This week, which is National Youth Authors and Illustrators week, SAFE Project will begin efforts to bring awareness to authors who write books on substance addiction and mental health. SAFE Project was founded on the principle of storytelling and incorporates stories often throughout our initiatives and lines of operation. Stories serve as a powerful tool: they unite, calm and comfort, inspire advocacy, create the space for dreams, instill hope; and offer help and direction.

Our featured author this week is Jessica Lahey and her book, The Addiction Inoculation. As a teacher, a mother, and an individual in recovery from an alcohol use disorder, Jessica writes words of wisdom for parents and educators about practical prevention steps. SAFE Project recently sat down with Jessica to learn more about her and the inspiration behind her book.

Week of January 29, 2023

In 2020, SAFE Project launched the No Shame Pledge as the basis in the No Shame Movement. In doing so, we became a leader in actions to end the stigma associated to addiction and mental challenges. Individuals who sign the pledge commit to doing their part to stop stigma surrounding addiction and mental health challenges by empowering others, while encouraging care, treatment, and recovery. YOU can make a difference. Join SAFE Project and the thousands of others who have taken the No Shame Pledge.

Week of January 22, 2023

Principle #4 on the No Shame Pledge: For individuals in recovery, I pledge to support them through their lifelong journey to a self-directed, safe, productive and successful life.

Recovery from addiction and mental health challenges involves a, “process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential” (SAMHSA’s working definition). You can be a source of hope and inspiration by first knowing and accepting recovery as an extremely personal journey, one that will take time, and will involve stages of change. Change happens for everyone through stages; to better understand behavioral change, check out this link that introduces the Transtheoretical Model of change:

Week of January 15, 2023

Principle #3 on the No Shame Pledge: I will encourage individuals to seek the help and treatment needed to address addiction and mental health challenges by providing a shame-free environment.

Making a conscious choice to meet individuals where they are without blame, shame, or judgement equates to healing, growth, and wellness. To seek help on a recovery journey requires a lot of courage, strength, and fortitude. Recognizing and applauding positive change and progress goes a long way.

Week of January 8, 2023

Principle #2 on the No Shame Pledge: I commit to learning more about the disease of addiction, the mental health challenges that contribute to it, and to changing the conversation surrounding it.

Learning more about the complex disease of addiction and mental health challenges that can contribute to it is a vital step in changing the conversation. Both addiction and mental health challenges are largely misunderstood, with views that are often misunderstood and mistakenly perceived as lack of willpower and poor moral character and principle. Substance addiction for example changes the brain making it hard to quit even for people who really want to do so. The good news is that people can and do recover! Learn more:

Week of January 1, 2023

Principle #1 on the No Shame Pledge: I understand that addiction is a disease, and I pledge to eliminate the stigma for individuals experiencing it.

To understand addiction as a disease, it is helpful to first understand addiction. Addiction as defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary as, “a compulsive, chronic, physiological, or psychological need for a habit-forming substance, behavior, or activity having harmful physical, psychological or social effects and typically causing well-defined symptoms upon withdrawal or abstinence.”

This article discusses the DSM-5-TR criteria for substance use disorders and how these conditions are diagnosed:

Clip on understanding stigma linked to addiction and mental health challenges:

To make a difference, join SAFE Project’s No Shame Movement.

Week of December 26, 2022

Consuming a lot of alcohol in really short periods of time — called “binge drinking” — is very dangerous. Youth tend to binge drink at rates as high as 90%. Know the risks and get the facts.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is an organization that offers support and advocacy for victims of drunk and drugged driving. MADD honors and remembers victims as individuals, not just as a statistic. They also offer problem solving education and resources.

Week of December 19, 2022

It is estimated that one in three traffic deaths in the United States involve a driver with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Alcohol-impaired driving laws make it illegal to drive at or above a specified BAC of 0.05% or 0.08%, depending on the state.

The Interagency Coordinating Committee on The Prevention of Underage Drinking released a comprehensive plan in 2022 for preventing and reducing underage drinking.

Week of December 12, 2022

Week of December 5, 2022

Impaired driving related accidents could happen to anyone!

(image source — https://ccdlaw.com/safety/impaired-crash-stats/)

Week of November 28, 2022

When it comes to vaping, cigarette smoking, and tobacco chewing, it is important to know the facts, to understand the deceiving marketing strategies, and to have appropriate resources. Equally important is knowing how to confidently talk with your teen about this subject. Check out this CDC and US Surgeon General tip sheet for parents that contains information on how to prepare for the talk, how to start the conversation, and how to keep the conversation going.

Week of November 21, 2022

Every day, the tobacco industry spends $25 million to market their products. These two articles include information on tactics and ploys that target youth, an underage population.

Week of November 14, 2022

The Great American Smokeout is Thursday, November 17. Quitting smoking (vaping, chewing) is an individual process that begins with a single day. The American Cancer Society has no-cost resources and information on programs and supports that will help guide you on your journey to quit.

Week of November 7, 2022

More than 2.5 million high and middle school students currently use e-cigarettes according to the 2022 National Youth Tobacco Survey.

Week of October 30, 2022

SAFE Project invites you to prioritize prevention and keep the momentum of Red Ribbon Week throughout the entire year. Prevention is the most underutilized response to the addiction epidemic — everyone can play a role!

To help those engaged with the youth sector (parents, guardians, caretakers as well as schools and youth serving organizations), SAFE Project is happy to provide SAFE Solutions, a one-of-a-kind, online resource that consists of educational materials, innovative approaches, and researched best practices curated by national subject matter experts in addressing challenges pertaining to mental health and substance use disorders. Find solutions filtered by desired outcomes and/or on the continuum of care (prevention, early intervention, harm reduction, treatment, recovery, and systems).

Together, through collaboration of all impacted community sectors, we can work to ensure many great school years and promote wellness across the lifespan.

Week of October 24, 2022

Check out these action-oriented Red Ribbon Week choice options and show your support of SAFE Project’s red ribbon slogan: Choose your path. Make SAFE choices.

Week of October 17, 2022

Week of October 10, 2022

Week of October 3, 2022

In recognition of National Youth Substance Use Prevention Month and red ribbon week, SAFE Project has created a resource landing page on our website:

On this site, you can request a supply of SAFE Project-designed red ribbons or red ribbon week stickers inscribed with the message “Choose Youth Path. Make Safe Choices” for use at the local level in your community.

Week of September 26, 2022

During National Recovery Month, SAFE Project is honored to join the thousands of impacted individuals, young and old, as they come together to spread positive messages that behavioral health is essential to overall health, prevention works, treatment is effective, that and people can and do recover.

This week, we would like to bring your attention to the “Mobilize Recovery Across America 2022” national bus tour which started September 5 and will go through October 6. Visit the Mobilize Recovery website to check out the highlights of each unique visit and hear messages about the common mission of ending overdose, ending addiction, and inspiring solutions for recovery.

September 30 is International Recovery Day. To learn more and join the celebration, visit – https://internationalrecoveryday.org/registration/

Week of September 19, 2022

SAFE Project is proud to join agencies and organizations across the country in taking steps to raise awareness of recovery month. This week, we feature resources and upcoming events available through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA):

Week of September 12, 2022

It has been three decades since the initial National Recovery Month, an observance held every September in support of the nation’s strong and proud recovery community, and the dedication of service providers and communities who make recovery in all its forms possible.

SAFE Project is a proud champion of those in recovery. We are pleased to provide these helpful resources that are available to those in recovery themselves and those helping individuals through their recovery journey.

Week of September 5, 2022

SAFE Project is honored to join the thousands of impacted individuals, young and old alike, as they come together during recovery month (September) to share inspiring messages of hope. To learn more about the history of recovery month as well as collaborative efforts across the country focused on the national theme: “Every Person. Every Family. Every Community”, visit:

The “Recovery & Resiliency with Real Students” recorded webinar is brought to you by the New England PTTC and SAMHSA Region 1:

Week of August 29, 2022

The success of each school year largely depends on a supportive and intentional collaboration between, student, family, educational facility, and faculty. With the diversity of concerns facing youth today, placing priority on mental health can lead to better outcomes. The most effective and sustainable approaches to improved mental health begins with understanding the needs of the individuals you seek to support.

The National Institute of Mental Health provides a list of warning signs, as well as brochures and other resources on mental health topics such as anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, and more:

Week of August 22, 2022

As schools across America are opening their doors to the start of the 2022/23 school year, we encourage all to prioritize youth mental health.

The state of an individual’s mental health affects every aspect of their life, including how they think, feel, and act. For young people experiencing symptoms of mental health challenges, the earlier treatment is started, the more effective it can be. Early treatment can help prevent more severe conditions as the child moves into adulthood. Relevant and supportive research on the topic include:

Week of August 15, 2022

Beginning a new school year usually comes with some anxiety, but in today’s uncertain times students may need a lot more support, reassurance, and comfort before they’re ready to learn.

To help, SAFE Project is happy to announce our Back to School resource page. It contains tools specifically for those engaged with the youth sector (parents, guardians, and caretakers, as well as schools and youth-serving organizations). Having conversations about mental health and substance use can build resilience and support youth in making healthy safe choices now and across their lifespan.

Week of August 8, 2022

The range of emotion spans across the spectrum from super excited to super stressed. There are many preparations that need to take place before the homeroom bell rings. This school year, we at SAFE Project encourage you to add a child “Mental Health Checkup” to your list of back-to-school preparations.

To help those engaged with the youth sector (parents, guardians, caretakers, as well as schools and youth serving organizations), SAFE Project is happy to provide SAFE Solutions, a one-of-a-kind, online resource that consists of educational materials, innovative approaches, and researched best practices curated by national subject matter experts in addressing challenges pertaining to mental health and substance use disorders. Find Solutions filtered by desired outcomes and/or on the continuum of care (prevention, early intervention, harm reduction, treatment, recovery, and systems).

Together, through collaboration of all impacted community sectors, we can work to ensure many great school years and promote wellness across the lifespan.

Week of August 1, 2022:

One of the toughest issues for families and friends is how to navigate the systems that provide care and/or support — and it’s especially hard when they are in a crisis situation.

  • Building Blocks: Create a Crisis Plan for Your Minor or Adult Child
    A SAFE Project resource focused on how to plan or prepare for the unexpected. Not every adult or child will need crisis intervention services, treatment, or hospitalization, but we encourage parents and/or caregivers to have a plan in place and know their rights — as well as their child’s rights.
  • No Shame Youth Education Program
    A SAFE Project supplemental education program for youth and young adults. This no-cost program increases knowledge of the principles on the No Shame pledge and empowers youth as informed advocates, individuals who can confidently speak out against stigma and take a pro health stance in support of individual wellness.

The downloadable complimentary version is suited for:

  • Youth and young adults
  • Educators
  • Youth-serving organizations
  • Parents, guardians, and caretakers of youth
  • ANYONE interested in the topic

Week of July 25, 2022:

  • NBC News: States that legalized marijuana now researching mental health risks of high-potency cannabis
    “Products like wax and shatter can have THC levels up to 90 percent, and states like Washington and Colorado are looking at potency caps and product warnings.”
  • NIH: Nurturing My Mental & Emotional Health
    “Mental and emotional wellbeing is critical to overall health. By supporting teens in developing healthy coping skills, you can set them up for success in dealing with stress and challenging circumstances in the future. This activity helps promote mindfulness and teaches teens how to practice health-enhancing behaviors, which can support better management of stress and reduce the chances of exploring substance use as an alternative.”

Week of July 18, 2022:

  • Community Catalyst: Youth Are the Key to a Better Adolescent Behavioral Health System
    “Young people are speaking out about their experiences with mental illness and substance misuse, and many are eager to shape solutions to a growing crisis. Youth with lived experiences of mental illness and substance use challenges, including addiction, understand first-hand the limitations, inequities, and failures of the current system. This Mental Health Awareness Month, policymakers are actively working to address this issue, and it’s critical that youth with lived experience are meaningfully engaged.”

Week of July 11, 2022:

  • SAMHSA: 988 and What it means for Families of People with Serious Mental Illness (Webinar Registration)
    “988*, the new three-digit number for mental health and suicidal crises, will be available nationwide by July 16, 2022. Once live, 988 is poised to change the way communities respond to people in crisis, connecting individuals to trained crisis counselors that can provide de-escalation and mental health intervention services by phone. This new number holds lots of promise, but what does this change mean for families of people with serious mental illness?”
  • CDC: Mental Health Surveillance Among Children — United States, 2013–2019
    “Mental health encompasses a range of mental, emotional, social, and behavioral functioning and occurs along a continuum from good to poor. Previous research has documented that mental health among children and adolescents is associated with immediate and long-term physical health and chronic disease, health risk behaviors, social relationships, education, and employment.”

Week of July 4, 2022:

Week of June 27, 2022:

  • Prevention Technology Transfer Center (PTTC) Network: Pride Month 2022
    “The PTTC Network joins with others in recognizing June as LGBTQIA+ Pride Month. Our network is committed to ensuring all our programs are equitable and inclusive. On this resources page, you’ll find links to Network events, products, and resources to achieve those goals and foster an environment of respect, support, and equality.”
  • youth.gov: June is LGBT Pride Month
    “Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month (LGBT Pride Month) is celebrated annually in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall riots, and works to achieve equal justice and equal opportunity for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) Americans.”
  • JUVJUST: OJJDP Celebrates LGBTQI+ Pride Month
    “President Biden proclaimed June as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex (LGBTQI+) Pride Month.”
  • Partnership to End Addiction: LGBTQ+, Family, & Substance Use
    “As a parent or caregiver, showing your love, acceptance and support is essential to promoting your child’s well-being. This behavior can significantly decrease an LGBTQ+ teen’s likelihood of substance use and improve their mental health.”

Week of June 20, 2022:

  • Partnership to End Addiction: Looking for LGBTQ-Friendly Treatment for Your Child? Here are 9 questions to ask.
    “When a child has a health crisis with substance use or a combination of mental health and substance use problems, it can be frightening and stressful. You may be tempted to grab whatever resource is closest. However, taking a moment to ask questions and assess your options will help get your child into a program that’s right for them.”
  • SAMHSA: LGBTQI+ Youth – Like All Americans, They Deserve Evidence-Based Care
    “As a clinical psychologist, academician, and government leader, I have focused on ensuring that mental health care services and policies are culturally responsive, evidence-based and in the best interest of those receiving services. Providing timely, appropriate, and evidence-based treatment vastly improves outcomes and can help save our young people from suicide ideation and attempts. I want to share what we know works to best engage Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning and Intersex (LGBTQI+) youth as well as the resources we have for them, their families, providers, community organizations, and government agencies.”

Week of June 13, 2022:

  • SAMHSA: Pride Month Chat with Representative Ritchie Torres
    Join SAMHSA, Thursday, June 16th, 11:30am ET in celebrating Pride Month with a virtual fireside chat with Representative Ritchie Torres. Rep. Torres is an openly gay man who has acknowledged his own struggles with mental health. This event is for any individual with an interest in LGBTQI+ behavioral health. Submit your question for Rep. Torres when you register at the link.

Substance Use and Mental Health LGBTQ+ Resources:

Week of June 6, 2022:

Week of May 30, 2022:

Week of May 23, 2022:

  • CDC: Children’s Mental Health: Understanding an Ongoing Public Health Concern
    A new report on children’s mental health used data from different sources to describe mental health and mental disorders in children during 2013–2019. Poor mental health among children continues to be a substantial public health concern. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety among children of all ages, and symptoms related to depression among adolescents, are the most common concerns.
  • NIH: Nurture Your Resilience – Bouncing Back From Difficult Times
    “Everyone goes through tough times in life. But many things can help you survive—and even thrive—during stressful periods. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Learning healthy ways to cope and how to draw from resources in your community can help you build resilience.”

Week of May 16, 2022:

  • Mental Health America: “The State of Mental Health in America”
    Over 2.5 million youth in the U.S. have severe depression, and multiracial youth are at greatest risk. 10.6% of youth in the U.S. have severe major depression (depression that severely affects functioning). The rate of severe depression was highest among youth who identified as more than one race, at 14.5% (more than one in every seven multiracial youth).

You can help end stigma and show your support of individuals experiencing mental health and substance use challenges by joining SAFE Project’s No Shame Movement. Access the No Shame pledge as well as the newly developed “No Shame Youth and Young Adult Supplemental Education Program” on our toolkit page.

Week of May 9, 2022:

  • National Prevention Week (NPW) is a national public education platform bringing together communities and organizations to raise awareness about the importance of substance use prevention and positive mental health.

The 2022 NPW Daily Themes:

  • May 9: Strengthening Community Resilience: Substance Misuse and Overdose Prevention
  • May 10: Preventing Substance Use and Promoting Mental Health in Youth
  • May 11: Preventing Suicide: Everyone Plays a Role
  • May 12: The Talent Pipeline: Enhancing the Prevention Workforce
  • May 13: Prevention is Everywhere: Highlighting Efforts Across Settings and Communities
  • May 14: Celebrating Prevention Heroes

Week of May 2, 2022:

Week of April 25, 2022:

  • CDC: Alcohol Use and Your Health
    “Drinking too much can harm your health. Excessive alcohol use led to more than 140,000 deaths and 3.6 million years of potential life lost (YPLL) each year in the United States from 2015 – 2019, shortening the lives of those who died by an average of 26 years. Further, excessive drinking was responsible for 1 in 10 deaths among working-age adults aged 20-64 years. The economic costs of excessive alcohol consumption in 2010 were estimated at $249 billion, or $2.05 a drink.”
  • Very Well Health: Mixing ADHD and Alcohol May Increase Your Risk of Addiction
    “Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that causes hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and difficulty paying attention. By some estimates, ADHD affects approximately 11% of children and 4% of adults. Adults with ADHD may occasionally enjoy an alcoholic beverage, but they should be very cautious.”

Week of April 18, 2022:

  • SAMHSA: Alcohol Use Among Girls and Young Women (PDF)
    “For at least the past two decades, data showed that boys and young men were more likely to drink than girls and young women. However, an unsettling trend has taken hold: Data now show that girls and young women, ages 12 to 20, are drinking more alcohol than their male counterparts.”
  • SAMHSA: Facts on Underage Drinking (PDF)
    “Alcohol continues to be the most widely used substance of abuse among American youth, and a higher proportion use alcohol than tobacco, marijuana, or other drugs.”
  • SAMHSA: “Talk. They Hear You.”® Campaign
    “SAMHSA’s national substance use prevention campaign helps parents and caregivers start talking with their children early about the dangers of alcohol and other drugs.”
  • SAMHSA: Be Prepared to Have the Difficult Conversation (PDF)
    “Before you allow your underage children to attend a party where you think alcohol may be available, take the opportunity to inform them of how alcohol and other substances—such as marijuana—can affect their bodies and minds.”
  • SAMHSA: After High School – Talking With Your Young Adult About Underage Drinking (PDF)
    “While they’re wrapping up high school studies and obligations, high school seniors make important decisions about the rest of their lives. Some choose to pursue a college degree immediately, and others may decide to join the workforce or military or delay college enrollment.”

Week of April 11, 2022:

Week of April 4, 2022:

To raise awareness about alcohol-related harms and the importance of alcohol policy safeguards, the Northwest Prevention Technology Transfer Center (PTTC) has launched the Alcohol Awareness Toolkit #ProoflsInTheNumbers. The Alcohol Awareness Toolkit seeks to do the following during the month of April:

      • Raise awareness about alcohol-related harms and the importance of strong alcohol policies using memes,
      • Encourage engagement from prevention and public health stakeholders to strategically educate and inform decision makers about effective alcohol policies by providing easy-to-personalize, templated opinion editorials, letters to legislators and proclamations, and
      • Provide materials to raise awareness around weekly themes in observance of April as National Alcohol Awareness Month.

 

2022 Weekly Themes by PTTC

      • Week 1: Harms to Others/Impaired Driving/Violence (April 1-3)
      • Week 2: Increases in Alcohol-Related Emergency Room Visits (April 4-10)
      • Week 3: Alcohol’s Role in The Opioid Epidemic (April 11-17)
      • Week 4: Alcohol and Cancer (April 18-24)
      • For more resources, visit the PTTC Network Alcohol Awareness Toolkit

Week of March 28, 2022:

Choose knowledge and know the facts about the dangers of fentanyl for youth and young adults, and learn the steps you can take to save a life from a fentanyl overdose.

Week of March 21, 2022:

Week of March 14, 2022:

      • SAFE Treatment and Family Support Locator
        SAFE Project and Partnership to End Addiction launched the first-of-its-kind online SAFE Treatment and Family Support Locator. For every person navigating a substance use or mental health challenges or who identifies as being in recovery, there is often a parent, child, spouse, or caregiver who is right beside them in that journey. While there are reputable locators to find treatment and recovery resources, families and caregivers did not have access to reliable online support resources for themselves–until now.

Week of March 7, 2022:

Week of February 28, 2022:

      • RAND.org: Commission on Combating Synthetic Opioid Trafficking
        “The Commission on Combating Synthetic Opioid Trafficking, established under Section 7221 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020, was charged with examining aspects of the synthetic opioid threat to the United States—specifically, with developing a consensus on a strategic approach to combating the illegal flow of synthetic opioids into the United States.”

Week of February 21, 2022:

      • SAFE Project: Addiction & Mental Health Resources for the Black Community
        Everyone’s journey to recovery is unique — but when it comes to treatment the Black community experiences more barriers to treatment than other groups. Attention to the addiction epidemic has focused primarily on White suburban and rural communities. Less attention has focused on Black communities which are similarly experiencing dramatic increases in opioid misuse and overdose deaths. In SAFE Project’s commitment to ensure that members of the Black community have access to recovery, prevention, and mental health resources, we have curated a list of recovery and mental health resources specifically for the Black community.

Week of February 14, 2022:

Week of February 7, 2022:

      • Feb. 7-13, 2022 is Children’s Mental Health Week AND Children’s Author Week
        This year, SAFE Project is highlighting both by featuring two books and their respective authors. These books are specifically written for children and themed on substance use and mental health, while endorsing open and meaningful conversations with kids. The books promote mental and emotional learning and resilience skill building that lead to safe choices in all stages of youth development.

My Brother Is Not A Monster

My Brother Is Not A Monster tells the story of young Sophia. She is upset when her older brother, Joey, begins acting differently. Sophia is scared when she finds Joey passed out and unresponsive. She witnesses EMTs revive Joey with Narcan. During her brother’s recovery, their mom explains to Sophia that Joey suffers from a disease called addiction that can sometimes make people behave in ways that are scary. Joey goes through treatment and starts on a path to recovery. Written by Lee S. Varon, this story can be a tool to begin having tough conversations with young ones. The book is for children, parents, and any adult supporting a child with a family member who has substance use disorder or mental health challenges. It has workbook pages with tips and resources for children and parents. Learn more about My Brother Is Not A Monster.

Someone I Love Died from a Drug Overdose

Someone I Love Died from a Drug Overdose tells the story of Tommy, a young boy whose father struggles with substance use disorder. The book covers addiction and loss from a child’s point of view. It addresses Tommy’s loving relationship with his parents, moments of parental conflict, his father’s journey to treatment, and ultimately the disease of addiction causing his father’s death. It normalizes Tommy’s thoughts and feelings and conveys the importance of open and honest conversations. The “My Story” workbook section allows a child that lost a loved one to an overdose to share their own story. “Sharing our experiences helps create an atmosphere of healing”, said Author, Melody Ray. Learn more about Someone I Love Died from a Drug Overdose.

Week of January 31, 2022:

Week of January 25, 2022:

Week of January 17, 2022:

Week of January 10, 2022:

Week of January 3, 2022:

Week of December 27, 2021:

      • United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) news release: “Emoji Drug Code Decoded”
        “Criminal Drug Networks are killing Americans and they are using social media to deliver deadly doses of fentanyl”, DEA Administrator Anne Milgram.

Week of December 20, 2021:

      • Short Takes with NIAAA
        Short takes video series on the topic of alcohol: “What are alcohol induced black outs?”, “What is alcohol use disorder?”, “What is binge drinking?”, and “What is alcohol overdose?”
      • Monitoring the future survey results:
        “We have never seen such dramatic decreases in drug use among teens in just a one-year period,” National Institute on Drug Abuse Director Nora Volkow, M.D., said in a news release. “These data are unprecedented and highlight one unexpected potential consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused seismic shifts in the day-to-day lives of adolescents. Moving forward, it will be crucial to identify the pivotal elements of this past year that contributed to decreased drug use – whether related to drug availability, family involvement, differences in peer pressure, or other factors – and harness them to inform future prevention efforts.”
      • New survey shows progress on curbing teen vaping, but e-cigarette use remains high as access to flavors, risk of nicotine addiction, and impact on youth mental health concerns grow
        “The 2021 Monitoring the Future (MTF) survey data released today show progress in the fight to curb youth nicotine vaping, signaling efforts to provide education to prevent e-cigarette use and quitting resources are starting to work.”

Week of December 6, 2021:

Week of November 29, 2021:

Week of November 22, 2021:

      • USA Today: Drug overdoses surged amid COVID lockdowns
        “More than 100,000 Americans died of drug overdoses during the 12 months following the COVID-19 lockdowns, the most overdose deaths ever recorded in a one-year span, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.”

Week of November 15, 2021:

      • SAMHSA Advisory: Prescription Stimulant Misuse Among Youth and Young Adults
        “This Advisory reviews the evidence on prescription stimulant misuse among youth and young adults. It establishes prescription stimulant misuse as a public health problem, identifies associated risk and protective factors, and provides programs and action steps for stakeholders to prevent misuse.”

Week of November 8, 2021:

    • SAMHSA releases 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health
      “The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has released findings from the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). The data suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on the nation’s well-being. Americans responding to the NSDUH survey reported that the coronavirus outbreak adversely impacted their mental health, including by exacerbating use of alcohol or drugs among people who had used drugs in the past year.”
    • The National Child Traumatic Stress Network Releases Fact Sheet: TRAUMA-INFORMED SCHOOL STRATEGIES DURING COVID-19
      “This fact sheet offers information on the physical and emotional well-being of staff, creating a trauma-informed learning environment, identifying and assessing traumatic stress, addressing and treating traumatic stress, trauma education and awareness, partnerships with students and families, cultural responsiveness, emergency management and crisis response, and school discipline policies and practices.”
    • White House Releases Fact Sheet: IMPROVING ACCESS AND CARE FOR YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE USE CONDITIONS
      “Even before the pandemic, demand for mental health and substance use services was increasing, especially for our nation’s young people. The COVID-19 pandemic has only made the situation more challenging, subjecting many young Americans to social isolation, loss of routines, and traumatic grief.”

Additional Resources & Assistance

For more information about SAFE Choices, contact
Senior Director Ronna Yablonski at: choices@safeproject.us

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