Community Efforts Shine In October’s Substance Use Prevention Month

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) as well as public and private healthcare providers, are joining together to recognize October as Substance Use Prevention Month, following a proclamation from Gov. Kelly Armstrong.

The observance celebrates prevention efforts and underscores the impact such initiatives have on saving lives, strengthening communities, and reducing long-term costs.

According to HHS, North Dakota has seen steady progress in reducing youth alcohol use. Reported alcohol use among high school students dropped from 35.3% in 2013 to 19.5% in 2023, based on data from the Youth Risk Behavior Survey. The percentage of students who reported drinking before age 13 also declined from 15.2% to 11.4% during the same period.

“Everyone has a role in creating a healthier North Dakota. By investing in prevention across families, schools, neighborhoods, and local coalitions, we do more than reduce harm; we create stronger, more connected places where people thrive,” the department said in a statement.

“Prevention is about giving people the tools and support they need to live well,” said Tori Reiner, HHS community prevention administrator. “When families talk openly, when schools and communities work together, and when North Dakotans share their stories of prevention and resilience, we see the true power of prevention. Together, we are building hope and healthier futures.”

To support local engagement, HHS has released a Substance Use Prevention Month Toolkit featuring community templates, parent conversation guides, and evidence-based prevention data. The toolkit is available at hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health/prevention-month.

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Families can also access additional resources through Parents Lead, which offers guidance for parents, caregivers, and adults. This October, Parents Lead is hosting a statewide billboard contest inviting students to design messages promoting substance-free living.