National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW) is an important annual observance
aimed at educating people, especially teens, about the dangers of substance use and
addiction. By debunking myths and sharing real science-backed information, National
Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW) helps communities across the country raise
awareness and support prevention efforts.
In this article, we’ll explore what National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week is, when it takes
place in 2025, its purpose, key statistics about substance use, and how you can get
involved.
What Is National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week?
National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW) is a nationwide health initiative
designed to educate young people about the realities of substance use and addiction. It
was launched in 2010 by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and later joined
by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).
The goal of National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week is to bridge the gap between
scientific research and public understanding, helping teens make intelligent and
informed decisions about substance use. By providing facts directly from scientists and
addiction specialists, NDAFW combats the misinformation that often circulates among
youth.
When Is National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week 2025?
National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week 2025 will take place from March 17 to March 23,
2025.
During this week, schools, communities, and organizations host various activities to
educate and engage people in meaningful discussions about substance use and
prevention.
The Purpose of National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week
The purpose of National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week is to provide scientifically backed
and evidence-based information about the risks of drug and alcohol use, particularly
among teenagers. By doing so, NDAFW aims to achieve the following goals, among
others:
Raise Awareness: Educate the public on the dangers of drugs, alcohol, and
addiction.
Debunk Myths: Counteract false information often spread through social media,
conversations with friends, and pop culture.
Promote Prevention: Encourage individuals to make informed choices about
substance use.
Support Recovery: Provide resources for individuals and families affected by
addiction.
Statistics and Facts About Drug and Alcohol Use
Understanding the far-reaching impact of substance use helps us to understand the
importance of National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week 2025.
Here are some key statistics about drug and alcohol use in the United States of
America:
- Over 46 million Americans struggled with substance use disorders in 2022
(SAMHSA). - Teen drug use is declining, but fentanyl-related deaths among youth increased by
94% from 2019 to 2020 (CDC). - Alcohol is the most commonly used substance among youth, with 29% of high
school students reporting alcohol use in the past month (CDC). - Nicotine use remains high, with over 2.5 million U.S. middle and high school
students using e-cigarettes (FDA, 2023). - More than 100,000 Americans die annually from drug overdoses, largely driven by opioids and fentanyl (NIH).
These alarming figures demonstrate why Drug and Alcohol Facts Week is a critical
opportunity to educate young people and encourage prevention efforts. Knowledge is
power, and the time to educate is now.
The Importance of Raising Awareness About Substance Abuse
Why is National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week important?
Substance abuse affects millions of individuals and families. Raising awareness through
NDAFW is truly powerful; it can help prevent first-time use, encourage treatment,
reduce stigma, and save lives.
- Preventing First-Time Use: Education helps young people understand the risks
before they experiment. - Encouraging Treatment: People struggling with addiction may seek help when
they learn about available resources. - Reducing Stigma: Honest conversations about addiction break down negative
stereotypes and encourage support. - Saving Lives: Knowledge about the dangers of substances, especially fentanyl and opioids, can prevent fatal overdoses.
The National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week 2025 campaign plays a key role in
promoting these crucial discussions.
Ways to Get Involved in National Drug And Alcohol Facts Week 2025
National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week is not reserved for those who work in addiction
treatment or are affected by substance use disorder. Anyone can participate in National
Drug and Alcohol Facts Week 2025 to help spread awareness!
Here are some great ways to get involved:
1. Host an NDAFW Event
Plan a school assembly, community discussion, or educational fair featuring guest
speakers, health professionals, and law enforcement officials.
2. Share Facts on Social Media
Use official hashtags like #NDAFW and share statistics, videos, and personal stories to
educate your audience.
3. Distribute Educational Materials
Provide fact sheets, infographics, and brochures in schools, workplaces, and
community centers.
4. Organize a Q&A
Invite local health professionals or addiction specialists to answer questions about
substance use and prevention.
5. Engage Schools and Youth Groups
Encourage teachers and youth leaders to integrate NDAFW into their lesson plans and
activities.
7. Take the National Drug And Alcohol Facts Week Pledge
Commit to spreading awareness and making informed choices about substance use.
These actions all help to support National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week 2025 and
contribute to a healthier, more educated community.
How to Plan a National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week Event
Are you really interested in organizing an event for National Drug And Alcohol Facts
Week this year? Good for you!
If you’re all in, you can follow these steps to help you plan an impactful and meaningful
event.
1. Choose a Focus – Will your event focus on opioids, underage drinking, vaping, or
general drug education?
2. Select a Format – Consider school presentations, panel discussions, interactive
workshops, or online webinars.
3. Find Speakers – Reach out to healthcare professionals, addiction specialists, law
enforcement, or individuals in recovery.
4. Promote Your Event – Use flyers, social media, and school/community networks
to spread the word.
5. Gather Educational Materials – Use resources from NIDA, SAMHSA, and local
organizations.
6. Engage Participants – Encourage questions, discussions, and hands-on
activities.
7. Evaluate and Reflect – Collect feedback to improve future events.
By organizing an event, you play a crucial role in the success of Drugs and Alcohol
Facts Week and help protect your community.
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