ADMH OBSERVES RED RIBBON WEEK
Montgomery, Ala. – The Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH) is proud to observe Red Ribbon Week from October 23–31, 2025, a nationwide campaign dedicated to educating communities about the dangers of drug misuse and promoting healthy, drug-free lifestyles.
Substance misuse affects not only individuals, but families, schools, and entire communities. Choosing to stay drug-free supports better mental and physical health, stronger relationships, and safer neighborhoods.
“Red Ribbon Week serves as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to protect the well-being of our youth,” said ADMH Commissioner Kimberly Boswell. “Through education, outreach, and community engagement, we strive to create an environment where individuals are empowered to make healthy choices.”
Prevention is one of the most powerful tools in protecting Alabama’s future. By focusing on early education, open conversations, and community engagement; prevention initiatives can stop substance misuse before it starts.
Prevention efforts reduce the risk of substance use disorder, improve mental health, and save lives. ADMH’s prevention programs empower youth to make positive choices and build resilience in the face of pressure or stress.
ADMH works with a network of partners and providers to deliver a variety of prevention programs through community outreach and education. These initiatives reach schools and communities across the state, helping youth and adults understand the risks of substance misuse, including overdose, addiction, and its impact on mental health.
Through programs such as the Student Ambassadors Program, students take the lead in peer-to-peer education, empowering their peers to make informed choices and promote drug-free living. Additional efforts include Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Initiatives, which provide educational events and programs for young adults to support healthy decision-making and increase awareness of the long-term effects of substance use.
ADMH encourages everyone to participate in Red Ribbon Week by learning about prevention resources, supporting youth and peers in making healthy choices, and committing to a drug-free lifestyle.
For more information on Red Ribbon Week and ADMH prevention programs, visit https://mh.alabama.gov/.
About the Alabama Department of Mental Health
The Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH) is committed to improving the health and well-being of every Alabamian by providing accessible, high-quality mental health and substance use services. ADMH works to ensure that individuals affected by mental illness, developmental disabilities, and substance use disorders can live with dignity, purpose, and hope in their communities.