May 12 marks the beginning of National Prevention Week, a week-long national event supported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and dedicated to increasing public awareness of, and action around, substance abuse and mental health issues.
The observance is an opportunity to unite the community to promote prevention efforts, educate others about behavioral health issues and create and strengthen community partnerships.
This year's theme, "Your voice. Your choice. Make a difference,” emphasizes that the prevention of substance abuse and promotion of mental health starts with the choices each of us makes in our own life.
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Through our choices (and voices), we can set an example of health and well-being for others, raise awareness of behavioral health issues and help create healthier a safer place to live. To celebrate National Prevention Week, LiveFree! Coalition, a local alliance promoting awareness about the harmful effects of underage drinking, binge drinking, prescription drug abuse, marijuana/synthetic use and other substance abuse among youth and young adults, is promoting expertise and prevention resources in an effort to spotlight problem-solving and life-saving prevention resources in Pinellas County.
A recent community health assessment survey conducted by the Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County identified alcohol and drug abuse as the top behavior of concern in the community. Rounding out the top five were: poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, being overweight and smoking.
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“Many of these identified issues are 100 percent preventable once we invest in a health and wellness lifestyle and support the prevention system of care in Pinellas County,” said Jackie Griffin, executive director of LiveFree!.
We need to continue our advocacy for effective evidence-based programs and environmental strategies infused within our community. National Prevention Week helps us feature our great solutions and services available to our parents, youth and families. Investing in prevention can truly change our communities for the better.”
Doing its part, LiveFree! is coordinating a week-long opportunity to connect with key community leaders and discuss important topics related to prevention, instilling that prevention is important in all areas of life and not just when it comes to drug and alcohol use.
In addition to uniting key community leaders, the organization is also hosting a prevention week celebration at Childs Park Recreational Center at 4301 13th Ave S, St. Petersburg from 3- 5 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15.
The block party will include a DJ, contests, food, prizes, activity tables and more! Personal Trainer Carlos Morgan will also lead youth participants of all ages in group exercises.
The event will be held in partnership with all LiveFree! community clubs.
“The best way to make the community a healthier and safer place is to unite its members and discuss the importance of prevention,” added Griffin.
“While this is something we strive to do year round at LiveFree!, National Prevention Week serves as the perfect opportunity to remind others to join us in our mission.”
LiveFree! encourages those looking for a way to take part in National Prevention Week to sign and share the "Prevention Pledge" on SAMHSA’s Facebook page to make a difference and commit to a healthy lifestyle.
SAMHSA has also provided a downloadable Toolkit, which provides resources for National Prevention Week 2013 events and year-round prevention efforts.
About LiveFree! Coalition LiveFree! Coalition raises awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse among youth, young adults and adults in Pinellas County. By offering trainings, advocacy, town hall meetings, a Speaker’s Bureau, environmental strategies and awareness events, LiveFree! encourages Pinellas County families to live safe, healthy and drug-free. For more information, visit the blog at www.livefreeblog.org or Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/livefreeFL.