New CDC and NIDA Tools to Advance Overdose Prevention & Youth Substance Use Awareness
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) recently shared several important resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that can support awareness, education, and prevention efforts across our communities.
-
National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day – August 21: This annual day of recognition honors lives lost to fentanyl and raise awareness of the dangers of illegally made fentanyl. The 2025 theme—hope and mental health—underscores the role of reducing stigma, raising awareness, and fostering healing. Despite a recent decline in overdose deaths, fentanyl continues to drive the overdose crisis. Access CDC’s public toolkit for key messages, social media content, and other outreach resources here. For additional informational on fentanyl, see NIDA's page here.
-
ENGAGE: Evidence-Based Strategies to Prevent Youth Substance Use: This practical resource contains effective strategies and approaches to help local, community, state, and other organizations plan for and implement a wide range of prevention activities. A brief one-minute overview video and partner toolkit provide accessible tools to guide prevention planning and implementation.
- Free Mind Campaign: Designed for youth audiences, the Free Mind campaign promotes substance use prevention through relatable, accessible messaging. Learn more about the campaign here.
ACAAM encourages members and partners to explore these tools and share them within their communities to advance prevention, support recovery, and empower youth.