Health Coalition displays to share substance abuse information in Rockland, Rockport
ROCKLAND — Visit either the Rockland Flanagan Center or the Rockport YMCA from May 13 to the 17 to view Knox County Community Health Coalition’s National Prevention Week display. Materials will be available to anyone interested in the prevention of prescription and opioids, underage drinking and alcohol, illicit drug use, youth marijuana and tobacco use including vaping. Information is also available on the prevention of suicide.
What is National Prevention Week?
National Prevention Week (NPW) is a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) sponsored campaign dedicated to increasing the prevention of substance use and promotion of mental health by promoting prevention year-round. The week-long National Prevention Week observance that occurs each May brings individuals, organizations, coalitions, states, and communities together to celebrate the events and activities that communities have held all year to raise awareness about the importance of preventing substance use and mental disorders.
When is National Prevention Week?
NPW takes place May 12-18, 2019. Near the kickoff of summer, this week is an ideal time for communities to come together to celebrate their successes and rally around prevention, according to Knox County Community Health Coalition, in a news release.
NPW is also timed to allow schools to take part in a prevention-themed event before the school year ends, raising awareness among students of all ages.
What’s the theme of National Prevention Week 2019?
This year’s NPW theme – “Inspiring Action, Changing Lives” – reminds people that they can all inspire positive change through the year.
“Every day and everywhere, whether we make healthy choices for ourselves or inspire others to do so, the small actions we take can change lives for the better,” the Coalition said.
What topics does National Prevention Week Address?
Five of the seven days during NPW have a suggested health topic that organizations and coalitions can use to guide the focus on community events:
Preventing Prescription and Opioid Drug Misuse (Monday, May 13)
Preventing underage Drinking and Alcohol Misuse (Tuesday, May 14)
Preventing Illicit Drug Use and Youth Marijuana Use (Wednesday, May 15)
Preventing Youth Tobacco Use (Thursday, May 16)
Preventing Suicide (Friday, May 17)
