Prevention Starts With Understanding
Each year, National Prevention Week brings communities together to raise awareness about substance misuse prevention and mental health. This year's theme—"Prevention Starts With Compassion"—reminds us that creating healthier communities begins with empathy, education, and equitable support.
At Her 2nd Chance, we know that prevention and recovery go hand in hand. Women facing addiction often encounter unique barriers, including:
- Stigma that discourages seeking help
- Childcare and financial challenges that limit treatment access
- Trauma histories requiring specialized care
1 in 3 women struggling with addiction never receive the support they deserve. That’s why prevention efforts must include:
✔ Trauma-informed programs addressing past abuse linked to substance use
✔ Gender-specific resources for mothers, survivors, and pregnant women
✔ Employment opportunities that foster stability and purpose
Recognizing the Signs: A Guide for Prevention
Early intervention saves lives. Here’s what to watch for:
🔍 Substance Misuse Red Flags
- Behavioral: Isolation, neglecting responsibilities, risky choices
- Physical: Sudden weight changes, poor hygiene, unexplained injuries
- Emotional: Mood swings, defensiveness about use, loss of interest in hobbies
🧠 Mental Health Warning Signs
- Persistent sadness or anxiety
- Extreme fatigue or sleep disturbances
- Withdrawing from social connections
- Expressing feelings of hopelessness
How You Can Help
1️⃣ Start a Compassionate Conversation
- Use nonjudgmental language: "I’ve noticed you’ve been struggling—how can I support you?"
2️⃣ Share Critical Resources
- SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (free, 24/7 treatment referrals)
- Mental Health First Aid: mentalhealthfirstaid.org
- "Talk. They Hear You" App: Helps parents prevent youth substance use
3️⃣ Advocate for Second Chances
- Support local recovery programs like Her 2nd Chance
- Challenge stigma by sharing stories of hope
Prevention Is Possible—Together
This #NationalPreventionWeek25, let’s commit to:
- Educating ourselves and others
- Advocating for inclusive prevention strategies
- Investing in programs that empower women in recovery
Learn more & get involved:
🌐 samhsa.gov/prevention-week
💜 Follow [@Her2ndChance] for recovery stories and resources