does prevention work?

Absolutely! There is lots of proof from all areas of the country – and world – that prevention works. Of course, not every campaign has been successful, but we do have some tips on what works.

1. Change community attitudes around underage drinking. Make it an expectation that underage alcohol use will not happen.

2. Encourage students to be involved in positive school and community activities, a factor that helps prevent underage alcohol use.

3. Provide student opportunities for validation and belonging (like entering a video contest!)

4. Provide information to parents on the consequences of underage alcohol use, as well as resources to get help.

5. Teach knowledge, skills and motivation to resist peer pressure and social pressures to drink.

6. Strictly enforce laws and policies against underage alcohol use. Set high expectations and youth will meet them!

Resources and Information

Have questions about alcohol and underage drinking? Need some facts for your video? Check out these links with a ton of great information!

www.stopalcoholabuse.gov
www.dontserveteens.gov
www.madd.org/underage-drinking
www.timetotalk.org
www.theantidrug.com
www.camy.org
www.reelactionky.com

Need help?

Do you know someone struggling with alcohol or other drug use? Maybe you’ve wondered if you have a problem. There is help out there!

Bluegrass Regional Mental Health Mental Retardation Board, Inc offers mental health and substance abuse services in the 17 county Bluegrass region. For more information go here http://www.bluegrass.org/ or call 1-800-928-8000.


If you’re outside the Bluegrass region, information for other community mental health centers can be found here http://mhmr.ky.gov/cmhc/


Find local substance abuse treatment providers here http://dasis3.samhsa.gov/


For under-aged drivers, Kentucky has a “Zero Tolerance” policy. If you are pulled over with any amount of alcohol in your blood you can be cited. For information on Zero Tolerance classes necessary to get your license back, call 1-859-225-3296.


Family Resource and Youth Service Centers are available at most schools and provide assistance and programs to students and families who are struggling. For more information, go here http://chfs.ky.gov/dfrcvs/frysc/ or contact your school.