National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week – Helping Fremont County Teens make informed choices

Sponsored by Fremont County Prevention Program

March 13, 2026

Each year, communities across the country recognize National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week, an annual observance designed to spark conversations about the science of drug use and addiction among youth. The week brings together scientists, educators, healthcare providers, community organizations, parents, and teens to share accurate information and encourage healthy decision-making.

In 2026, National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week will take place March 15–21.

For communities like Fremont County, the observance serves as an important reminder that prevention begins with education, honest conversations, and strong community support.

Why Education Matters for Teens

Teenagers today are exposed to a wide range of information about drugs and alcohol, but not all of it is accurate. Social media, pop culture, and peer conversations can sometimes spread myths about substance use.

Providing teens with science-based information helps them understand how drugs and alcohol affect their bodies and their futures.

Research shows that the brain continues developing until around age 25, particularly the areas responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and judgment. Because of this, alcohol, nicotine, marijuana, and other substances can have stronger and longer-lasting effects on teens than on adults.

Early substance use can also increase the risk of addiction later in life, which is why prevention education during adolescence is so important.

Clearing Up Common Myths

National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week focuses on replacing myths with facts so young people can make informed choices.

For example:

Myth: “Weed is natural, so it’s safe.”

Fact: Marijuana affects the parts of the brain responsible for memory, learning, and decision-making. Because the brain continues developing into the mid-20s, marijuana use during the teen years can interfere with that development. And today’s cannabis is not the cannabis of years gone by. The way it’s cultivated, harvested and processed for varying effects makes it more potent and sometimes more dangerous for the user.

Myth: “Vaping is just flavored water vapor.”

Fact: Most vaping products contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and can harm the developing brain. Nicotine can also affect attention, mood, and impulse control.

Myth: “Prescription pills are safer than street drugs.”

Fact: Prescription medications can be dangerous when taken without a doctor’s guidance. Misusing medications like opioids or stimulants can lead to addiction, overdose, and serious health risks.

Myth: “Everyone drinks or uses drugs in high school.”

Fact: Many teens actually choose not to use substances, and strong support systems play a major role in those decisions.

Understanding the facts helps teens resist peer pressure and make choices that support their health and goals.

Parents Are a Powerful Influence

One of the most effective prevention tools is something simple: open communication between parents and teens.

Studies consistently show that teens are less likely to misuse substances when they have trusted adults they can talk to about difficult topics.

Parents can start by asking what their teen has heard about vaping, alcohol, or drugs and listening to their perspective. Conversations that are calm, honest, and ongoing often work better than a single “big talk.”

Setting clear expectations while encouraging questions helps teens feel supported and more confident in making healthy decisions.

Prevention Efforts in Fremont County

In Fremont County, prevention organizations work year-round to support youth, families, and community members with education and resources.

Fremont County Prevention partners with schools, healthcare providers, and local organizations to promote substance misuse prevention and mental wellness. Programs such as Sources of Strength help students build resilience, identify trusted adults, and develop healthy coping strategies.

Through community education, outreach, and prevention programs, Fremont County Prevention helps ensure that young people and families have access to reliable information and supportive resources.

These efforts reflect an important truth: prevention is not just about stopping problems before they start. It is about building strong connections, providing knowledge, and creating a community where young people can thrive.

Learn More

Parents, teens, and community members who want to learn more about prevention programs and educational resources can visit Fremont County Prevention.

Additional information about National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week and youth substance use is available through national prevention organizations and research institutions.