May 12, 2025 - When Sarah’s 15-year-old son was caught vaping at school, she didn’t know where to turn. It took support from her local prevention coalition — and early intervention — to steer him back toward healthier choices. Today, he’s thriving, but Sarah’s story is a reminder: prevention matters, and it starts early.
Every May, communities across the country recognize National Prevention Week. This year, it falls on May 12–18, 2025 — a time to spotlight substance use prevention, mental health promotion, and community action. It's about more than awareness — it's about action.
This year’s theme, “A Celebration of Possibility,” highlights what prevention truly offers: opportunity. When we invest in prevention, we create environments where young people like Sarah’s son can make stronger, healthier decisions.
“Prevention is a community-wide effort,” says Kim Bartel, Program Manager at the Alcohol & Drug Awareness Council of Deep East Texas. “It’s not just about substance use. It’s also about mental health—about helping people build resilience and feel supported before there’s a crisis. And everyone has a role to play: families, schools, neighbors,
and local organizations all have the power to make a difference.”
In Deep East Texas, the Prevention Resource Center Region 5, a department of the Alcohol and Drug Awareness Council, works year-round to support coalitions, train leaders, gather data, and advocate for proven prevention strategies. Our latest Regional Needs Assessment shows challenges like underage drinking, vaping, and prescription drug misuse remain urgent concerns across our communities.
But change is possible — and it starts with each of us.
During National Prevention Week, take time to talk with your kids, connect with local prevention groups, and make a difference by encouraging healthy choices every day.
To learn more about prevention, education, intervention, and recovery services available in Deep East Texas, visit www.adacdet.org.
Together, we can build a future full of possibility.
