The Prevention Works!VT’s Steering Committee has developed a “standardized” definition of substance misuse prevention to use when communicating with stakeholders who may be unfamiliar with how prevention integrates throughout systems and communities. This definition is one of many adopted by organizations throughout Vermont and nationally. Prevention organizations are welcome to use and share PW!VT’s definition in whole or in part at their discretion.

 

“Substance Misuse Prevention is an arm of public health that works to delay the onset of substance use, and prevent substance misuse by reducing harms across the lifespan through

• partnerships
• education
• community engagement
• public policy and proven best practices.

Substance Misuse Prevention is based on strategies that increase individual, community, and cultural well-being and resilience.