Alcohol & Other Drugs

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STOP SUBSTANCE USE BEFORE IT STARTS

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Alcohol and drug use remain a serious concern among teens in our community. In recent years, we’ve seen growing access to substances like alcohol, marijuana, and even fentanyl, along with dangerous myths that these products are safe or “not a big deal.” The truth is, alcohol and other drugs can interfere with brain development, increase the risk of addiction, and lead to risky or even life-threatening behaviors.

Prevention starts with awareness. By sharing accurate information, connecting families to resources, and creating opportunities for youth and parents to get involved, we can work together to build a healthier, drug-free future for Orange County.

WHY IT MATTERS

Protect Your Brain, Protect Your Future

Your brain continues to develop until around age 25—and that’s important to know. Drinking alcohol before it’s fully developed can negatively impact memory, learning, decision-making, and even how you manage emotions and stress.

  • For teens, underage drinking also increases the risks of accidents, injuries, and dangerous situations.
  • For parents, understanding these risks is key to having honest conversations and setting clear expectations.

The good news? Choosing to stay alcohol-free as a teen supports better focus, stronger mental health, and more opportunities to succeed - in school, sports, work, or life in general.

You have the power to protect your future.

Every healthy choice today builds a stronger tomorrow.

OUR PROGRAMS IN ACTION

Christina and Emily smiling together at a community event
Family enjoying time outdoors in Orange County
Higher Ground program participants gathered during September community event
Youth and mentors engaging in activities at Higher Ground in September
Group of volunteers and students at Partners4Wellness event
Community wellness outreach event with families and staff
Orange County School of the Arts students participating in a wellness activity
Ryan’s Reach program participants posing together at a gathering
Sabil Center community event promoting health and wellness

CHECK OUT OUR CURRENT PROGRAMS

YOUTH SUBSTANCE USE PREVENTION PROGRAM

The Youth Substance Use (YSU) Prevention Program educates students in grades 4–12 across the Capistrano, Saddleback Valley, and Laguna Beach Unified School Districts on alcohol and other drug prevention, media literacy, and life skills. The program also engages youth in the community through youth-led activities and provides parents with education on the dangers of substances such as alcohol, marijuana, and fentanyl.

The YSU program is funded by the Orange County Health Care Agency – Alcohol and Drug Prevention Team.

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YOUTH & PARENT EDUCATIONAL PRESENTATIONS

Partners4Wellness empowers families through prevention education. We equip youth with skills to make healthy choices and provide parents with tools to keep their kids alcohol and drug free.

Learn More
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YOUTH EMPOWERMENT ACTIVITIES

Our program provides youth with the tools and opportunities to drive positive change in their communities by raising awareness and reducing access to alcohol and other drugs.

Learn More

WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE OR SIMPLY LEARN MORE?

We're here to give you the tools, training, and opportunities to take action. Whether it's volunteering, joining a coalition, or becoming part of our Youth Advisory Committee—you'll have a voice in creating a healthier, safer Orange County.

Speak up. Get involved. Lead the way to a drug-free future.

Resources

TEEN RESOURCES

  • TeenLine: Call, text, or email for free, confidential peer support if you or a friend are dealing with vaping, tobacco, or other challenges. Call: 1-310-855-4673 or Text: TEEN to 839863
  • Truth Initiative - “This is Quitting”: Free, confidential text-based quit program for teens and young adults. Text DITCHVAPE to 88709.
  • Smokefree Teen: Tips, tools, and support for quitting vaping or smoking.
  • NIAAA for Teens: If you or a friend are struggling with alcohol, know that you can take control and recovery is possible.
  • SAMHSA’s National Helpline: free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.

PARENT & EDUCATOR RESOURCES