National Prevention Week 2014: “Our Lives. Our Health. Our Future.”

May 18-24 is National Prevention Week 2014, and the theme this year focuses on the important role each one of us has in maintaining a healthy life to ensure a productive future: Our Lives. Our Health. Our Future.
National Prevention Week 2014 is a SAMHSA-supported annual health observance dedicated to increasing public awareness of, and action around, substance abuse and mental health issues. National Prevention Week begins near the start of summer each year due to the increase in recreational activities and events that tend to spark substance use among young people.
SAMHSA urges us all to take part in National Prevention Week this year and help ensure a safe and healthy summer season!
There are many different ways to get involved:
•Take the Prevention Pledge to add your own “brick” to the wall, and share it among friends.
•Host your own awareness event using the National Prevention Week 2014 Participant Toolkit.
•Attend an awareness event and spread the word among your personal networks.
•Share National Prevention Week 2014 information with friends and family using the provided promotional materials from SAMHSA.
•Submit an entry to the National Prevention Week “I Choose” Project.
However you decide to participate, SAMHSA looks forward to observing National Prevention Week 2014 with you!

For past reporting on National Prevention Week, visit the following:
Get Ready for National Prevention Week 2013
National Prevention Week is May 20-26!
Take Action During National Prevention Week: Prevent Illicit Drug Use and Prescription Drug Abuse

Cecilia Bianco is an account executive for Prichard Communications. She contributes to the Reclaiming Futures blog regarding topics of juvenile justice reform and substance abuse prevention.