October is National Substance Abuse Prevention Month

October was first declared as National Substance Abuse Prevention Month in 2011. Since then, it's been a time to promote prevention efforts and the help that is available in our community. It is also a time to acknowledge the over 20 million Americans who struggle with addiction, those that have lost their battles with addiction, and those in recovery, as well as the family and friends who support them.

Key to substance use prevention is talking openly and understanding the impact of substance abuse on our health. Studies show that the earlier an individual starts smoking, drinking, or using other drugs, the greater the likelihood of developing an addiction. Every year that substance use is delayed during the period of adolescent brain development, the risk of addiction and substance abuse decreases.

To find help in Iowa visit https://yourlifeiowa.org/en/facility-locator or call (855) 581-8111.