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Substance Misuse Prevention for Young Adults

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – 2019

This guide discusses effective prevention practices to mitigate risk factors associated with substance misuse and promote protective factors among: all young adults generally; young adults at significantly higher risk for substance misuse; and young adults who are not diagnosed with a SUD but are engaging in substance misuse. Following an overview of the Evidence-Based Resource Guide Series, the guide provides information on the magnitude of substance misuse during young adulthood, factors that contribute to increased risk generally, and for specific population groups, as well as applications for prevention. Chapter 2 discusses current evidence of effectiveness of programs and practices to prevent substance misuse by young adults. Chapter 3 includes examples of programs that use evidence-based practices for preventing substance misuse by young adults. Seven programs are highlighted, including Adults in the Making, alcohol taxes, Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention for College Students, Communities Mobilizing for Change on Alcohol, Family Check-Up, Safer California Universities, and Team Awareness. The next chapter reviews practical information that should be considered when selecting and implementing programs and practices to prevent substance misuse by young adults. Five steps for framing questions about implementation are explored, including questions related to assessment, capacity, planning, implementation, and evaluation. The final chapter provides guidance and resources for implementing evidence-based programs and practices, monitoring outcomes, and improving quality. Strategies for assembling an evaluation team are discussed. Appendices include a chart of evidence-based prevention programs and policies, population targeted, settings, and outcomes. Numerous references.