PREVENTION
“When I drink it’s like a hug. It’s like I’m receiving love and comfort that I never had… It makes me forget that my brother is in jail for life…and that my best friend was shot and killed in front of my house.” — Anna, 17 years old
For many adolescents and teens, substances are a way of coping with the pain of isolation, bullying, physical abuse and mental health conditions. They often turn to alcohol and drugs because adolescents are “biologically wired” to seek new experiences and take risks without thinking about the consequences. And it is proven that the earlier young people begin using drugs, the greater likelihood of them developing a substance use disorder later in life.
Our Modality
Here at Phoenix House California, we cover the continuum of care, which includes substance use disorder prevention. Through funding from SAPC, Phoenix House California has a comprehensive prevention program that focuses on school-based and community education. Interventions and services include
Lifeskills:
This evidence-based program, implemented in schools within SPA 2, teaches young people life skills and how to navigate different skills that will benefit them in the future.
Communities in Action:
Community Activities:
Working in the community and interacting with individuals living there is a highlight. We provide families and friends with resources, education, and substance-free events to set them up for success.
Environmental Strategies:
We work in the community identifying social determinants of health that affect our community and apply strategies that shape the environment resulting in healthy behaviors.