Montgomery, Ala. – The Alabama Department of Mental Health, Office of Prevention is spearheading a series of activities in observance of National Prevention Week for May 12-18, 2019. National Prevention Week is an annual health observance dedicated to increasing public awareness of, and action around, mental and/or substance use disorders.
The three primary goals of National Prevention Week are to:
- Involve communities in raising awareness about behavioral health issues and implementing prevention strategies, and showcasing effectiveness of evidence-based prevention programs;
- Foster partnerships and collaboration with federal agencies and national organizations dedicated to behavioral and public health; and
- Promote and disseminate quality behavioral health resources and publications.
Each year, National Prevention Week includes daily themes to focus on major substance use and mental health topics. The 2019 weekday themes are:
- Monday, May 13: Preventing Prescription and Opioid Drug Misuse
- Tuesday, May 14: Preventing Underage Drinking and Alcohol Misuse
- Wednesday, May 15: Preventing Illicit Drug Use and Youth Marijuana Use
- Thursday, May 16: Preventing Youth Tobacco Use
- Friday, May 17: Preventing Suicide
At the department, at local providers and online, there are numerous activities going on. Some activities happening are: an ‘Alcohol Free’ Fun day that includes a ‘fatal vision goggle’ game, a cake walk, and resource table; Fact sheets and quizzes on tobacco usage, the social media challenge, #PreventionChampion; and more! To learn more, visit the ADMH Facebook page.