All About National Drug And Alcohol Facts Week
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National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW) is an annual health observance in the United States that aims to raise awareness about the dangers of drug and alcohol misuse among youth.
We’ve gone into detail before about alcohol misuse statistics and how alcohol use is one of the leading preventable causes of death in the United States. Unfortunately, alcohol misuse is on the rise among young people. Everyone can benefit from learning more about alcohol, but in light of this alarming trend, it’s important to educate teens and young adults about the potential dangers of drinking and using drugs.
That’s where NDAFW comes in! Let’s learn more about what NDAFW is and how we can participate.
An estimated 15 million Americans struggle with alcohol use disorder (AUD), but fewer than 10% receive treatment. More than 65 million Americans report binge drinking in the past month, which is more than 40% of people who drink.
Recent research estimates that 62% of teenagers in 12th grade have used alcohol, and 52% of teenagers have used drugs at least once. In 2022, more than 750,000 teenagers met the criteria for alcohol use disorder, and teen alcohol use is the top risk factor for developing AUD as an adult.
These alarming statistics point to an urgent need to address youth alcohol use. This was the intent behind the initiative to dedicate a National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week in the United States. Education is the best prevention, but identifying existing use is another important step.
It’s not always easy to know when someone we care about is struggling, especially young people. Youth and teens who struggle with substance misuse are often adept at keeping it a secret.
Besides cultivating an open, honest, judgment-free, and trusting atmosphere with loved ones, there are some signs to look out for that might indicate it’s time to check in on them. Consider these signs cautiously, without jumping to conclusions or making accusations.
If anyone in your life is displaying any of these behaviors, it’s a good idea to check in and simply ask them how they’re doing. Show them you care and support them, and be ready to guide them to helpful resources like professional care, a support group, or the Reframe app.
If you or someone you know is struggling with drug or alcohol abuse, resources are available to help. Contact the SAMHSA National Help Hotline to get connected to support immediately. If you’re looking for some ways to stop drinking, here are some tips to get you started on your alcohol-free journey. You got this!
The goal of NDAFW is to debunk myths and misconceptions about alcohol and drug use and to educate young people so they’re equipped to make wise decisions. Founded in 2010 and sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the week-long observance features community-based events, educational activities, social media campaigns, and partnerships with schools, organizations, and communities across the country.
The key objectives of NDAFW include the following:
NDAFW includes activities like school assemblies, workshops, panel discussions, poster contests, trivia games, social media challenges, and interactive presentations led by experts. With hundreds of events around the country (and world), there are many ways to participate in NDAFW — as a group, as a family, or as an individual.
The National Institutes of Health offers activity ideas, discussion prompts, event lists, and fact sheets at the NDAFW website. Let’s look at some easy ways to spread facts and stomp out stigma during NDAFW — and all year long!
We hope you feel inspired to participate in National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week 2024! Like we mentioned above, we can all treat every week like it’s NDAFW by making healthier choices, sharing our journey with others, and offering support to those in need. Who knows? Maybe you’ll even be inspired to start your own NDAFW tradition next year. We’ll cheers to that!
1. What is National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW)?
NDAFW is an annual weeklong observance that takes place mid-March. NDAFW was created in 2010 to educate teens and young adults about the dangers of alcohol and drug misuse.
2. When is NDAFW?
This year, it takes place from March 18–24, 2024.
3. How can I participate in NDAFW?
NDAFW sponsors hundreds of virtual and in-person events nationwide and even more around the world. We can join an event, plan an event, participate in a challenge, or engage on social media. For more information or to participate at an event in your area or virtually, check out the NDAFW site.
4. How many people participate in NDAFW?
National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week 2023 reached hundreds of thousands of youth participants and touched hundreds of communities across America. Now in its 14th year, NDAFW 2024 is bigger than ever!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Reframe supports you in reducing alcohol consumption and enhancing your well-being.