National Prevention Week

National Prevention Week is a SAMHSA-supported annual health observance dedicated to increasing public awareness of, and action around, substance abuse and mental health issues. This observance is an opportunity to join with other individuals, organizations, and coalitions in your community to promote prevention efforts, educate others about behavioral health issues, and create and strengthen community partnerships.

National Prevention Week 2013 will take place May 12-18, 2013. Sign and share the "Prevention Pledge" on SAMHSA’s Facebook page to make a difference and commit to a healthy lifestyle. This year's theme, "Your voice. Your choice. Make a difference." emphasizes that the prevention of substance abuse and promotion of mental health starts with the choices each of us makes in our own life. Through our choices, we can set an example of health and well-being for others. With our voices—whether spoken or written—we can raise awareness of behavioral health issues and help create healthier and safer communities.

The Van Buren County SAFE Coalition will be promoting prevention week through their Facebook page next week. If you haven’t liked their page do so today to get the most updated information about things you can do to set an example in your community. The theme for National Prevention Week is “Your Voice. Your Choice. Make a Difference.” You can get involved in National Prevention week in a variety of ways:

1.      Join the SAFE Coalition to address prevention in your community.

2.      Check out the Van Buren County SAFE Coalition Facebook page for prevention topics each day next week. Each of these topics will highlight ways you can get involved!

3.      Follow National Prevention Week on Facebook or Twitter to get updated information on activities happening across the United States to address prevention.

Each day during National Prevention Week 2013 has a suggested theme they are as follows:

Sunday, May 12^th                     Prevention and Cessation of Tobacco Use

Monday, May 13^th                   Prevention of Underage Drinking

Tuesday, May 14^th                   Prevention of Prescription Drug and Illicit Drug Use

Wednesday, May 15^th              Prevention of Alcohol Abuse

Thursday, May 16^th                  Suicide Prevention

Friday, May 17^th                      Promotion of mental, emotional and behavioral well being

Get involved today and don’t forget: Your Voice. Your Choice. Make a Difference!

For more information on Prevention Week check out the website at:  http://www.samhsa.gov/preventionweek/ or visit the SAFE Coalition website for local resources: www.vbsafecoalition.com. You may contact the SAFE Coalition at 319-293-6412 or info@vbsafecoalition.com