NNPHD's Behavioral Health and Substance Use Prevention programs work with schools, families, and community partners to reduce youth substance use and promote emotional wellness across our region.
About Our Programs
Substance use prevention is one of the most effective ways to improve long-term community health. By providing evidence-based education to youth and supporting families with resources and skills, we help prevent the lifelong consequences of addiction and protect mental well-being.
NNPHD partners with schools across Cedar, Dixon, Thurston, and Wayne counties to deliver engaging, age-appropriate prevention programs.
Our Prevention Programs
Catch My Breath
Catch My Breath is an evidence-based youth e-cigarette and vaping prevention program developed by the University of Texas Health Science Center. The program uses peer-led instruction, interactive activities, and digital content to help middle school and high school students understand the risks of vaping and build skills to refuse e-cigarettes.
- Designed for students in grades 5–12
- Four class periods of engaging, standards-aligned lessons
- Delivered free to participating schools
- Includes parent outreach materials
Fatal Vision
Fatal Vision uses simulation goggles to give students a first-hand, memorable experience of how alcohol and drugs impair coordination, judgment, and reaction time. The demonstration is a powerful classroom tool that drives home the dangers of impaired driving.
- Available for health classes, driver's education, prom/graduation events
- Interactive stations simulate different levels of impairment
- Paired with discussion and decision-making activities
Vaping Facts for Parents
Many parents don't know the signs of youth vaping or the current risks of e-cigarettes. Vaping Facts for Parents is a free community education program offering:
- What vaping devices look like (they're often disguised)
- Health risks specific to developing brains and lungs
- Signs your child may be vaping
- How to talk with your child about tobacco and nicotine
- Local resources for help quitting
WRAP — Wellness Recovery Action Plan
The Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) is an evidence-based self-management tool originally developed by people living with mental health challenges. WRAP helps individuals identify personal wellness tools, create daily maintenance plans, and develop strategies for handling difficult times.
- Group classes facilitated by trained WRAP leaders
- Helps participants build personal wellness plans
- Useful for anyone — not just those with mental health diagnoses
- Offered periodically; contact NNPHD for the next session
Who Can Request These Programs?
Schools
Teachers, counselors, and administrators can request in-school programs.
Parent Groups
PTAs, booster clubs, and parent networks can book community presentations.
Community Organizations
Churches, service clubs, youth organizations can host educational events.
Law Enforcement
Partner agencies can coordinate prevention programming and events.
Why It Matters
Substance use often begins in adolescence. The earlier young people begin using alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs, the more likely they are to develop a substance use disorder later in life. Prevention programs delay initiation, build refusal skills, and help young people develop healthy coping strategies.