Every year, National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week® (NDAFW) gives us a chance to set the record straight about substance use and arm our communities with the facts. Whether you’re a parent or caregiver, educator, or prevention professional, you play a crucial role in helping young people make informed choices.
To support your efforts, we’ve created a social media toolkit with ready-to-use content to help spread awareness throughout the week.
Let’s dive into some of the most important facts to know about youth substance use—and bust some common myths along the way!
1. Myth: “It’s Just Experimentation—All Teens Try Substances”
Fact: Not all teens use substances! In fact, national data show that substance use among young people has declined compared to Millennials and previous generations, with most teens choosing not to drink or use other drugs. By reinforcing positive behaviors and fostering open conversations, parents and caregivers can help keep this trend going.
Check out the latest facts on youth substance use here.
2. Myth: “A Little Alcohol Never Hurt Anyone”
Fact: The adolescent brain is still developing, and alcohol can have long-term effects on memory, decision-making, and impulse control. Research shows that youth who start drinking before age 15 are four times more likely to develop a substance use disorder later in life.
Want to learn more about alcohol and its impact? Get the facts here.
3. Myth: “If It’s Prescribed, It’s Safe”
Fact: Just because a healthcare professional prescribes a medication, doesn’t mean it’s safe for recreational use. Misusing prescription drugs—like opioids, stimulants, or sedatives—can be just as dangerous as using illegal substances. Lock up medications or keep them stored up and out of the way at home, count medications regularly, dispose of unused prescriptions safely, and educate young people about the risks.
Learn more about safe medication practices here.
4. Myth: “Vaping Is Harmless”
Fact: Many people believe vaping is a safer alternative to smoking, but the reality is e-cigarettes still contain nicotine and other harmful chemicals. Nicotine addiction can develop quickly—especially in young brains—and can lead to increased use of other substances.
Explore the risks of vaping here.
5. Myth: “Talking About Substance Use Will Only Make Kids Curious”
Fact: Open, honest conversations actually reduce the likelihood of substance use. Young people who feel comfortable discussing tough topics with trusted adults are less likely to engage in risky behaviors. The key? Start early, listen more than you talk, and create a judgment-free space for questions.
Need tips on starting the conversation? Check out the “Talk, They Hear You” campaign from SAMHSA.
How You Can Take Action During NDAFW
- Start a conversation at home, in your classroom, or within your community.
- Share reliable resources on social media to spread awareness. Download our social media toolkit with ready-to-use posts, graphics, and key messages.
- Participate in local prevention events or activities in New Hampshire (NH).
- Encourage healthy coping skills and protective factors that help young people make positive choices.
The Partnership is here to help you every step of the way. We encourage you to explore our website for free resources, conversation starters, and ways to take action in your community. Together, we can ensure that our youth grow up healthy, informed, and substance-free.
Resources
- Stronger Than You Think: This campaign developed by The Partnership supports open conversations between parents, caregivers, and adults who have strong relationships with youth, and the young people in their lives.
- QuitNow-NH: NH’s tobacco quitline. Residents who want to quit can call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) to access a specially trained Quit Coach.
- QuitWorks-NH: Allows healthcare professionals to easily refer patients who want to quit smoking to the full range of the state’s tobacco treatment services.
- My Life, My Quit™: The free and confidential way for youth to quit smoking or vaping. Text “Start My Quit” to 36072 or visit their website to chat with a Coach.
- NH Harm Reduction Coalition: Information on harm reduction strategies and local resources.
- 211 NH: The connection for NH residents to the most up-to-date resources from specially trained Information and Referral Specialists. 211 NH is available 24 hours, 365 days a year.
Looking for additional resources in NH? Access members of The Partnership who are dedicated to strengthening statewide efforts to help individuals, communities, and organizations to prevent the misuse of harmful substances and support those NH residents who might be experiencing challenges with substance misuse.