Category Archives: Substance Abuse

Substance misuse impacts entire communities, not just individuals. Families, schools, and neighborhoods often feel the effects long after the immediate crisis has passed. This is where drug-free community coalitions play a vital role. By bringing together local partners, youth voices, and prevention professionals, coalitions focus on proactive strategies that reduce risk before harm occurs.  AtContinue reading “How Drug-Free Coalitions Engage Communities Through Training and Outreach”

Harm reduction has become one of the most essential public health strategies for addressing substance use, preventing overdose, and supporting community wellness. Rather than focusing solely on abstinence or punitive approaches, harm reduction meets people where they are—offering tools, education, and compassionate support to reduce risks and save lives. As communities across Michigan continue toContinue reading “Harm Reduction: What It Is, How It Works, and Why It Matters in Our Communities”

Every October, communities across the country join together to honor National Substance Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and empower families to make safe, healthy choices. For LAHC, prevention isn’t just a monthlong focus—it’s a year-round mission. But this October, that commitment takes center stage through the Dose of Prevention Challenge,Continue reading “Prevention in Action: Engaging Youth and Families During National Substance Abuse Prevention Month”

Every April, Alcohol Awareness Month gives us a critical opportunity to have honest conversations about alcohol use and its dangers, especially for our teenagers. Today’s youth face enormous pressures from friends, social media, and a culture that too often treats drinking as harmless.  But at LAHC – Leaders Advancing and Helping Communities, we believe thatContinue reading “April is Alcohol Awareness Month: Why It Matters for Teens and Families”

Mark your calendars for March 6, 2025, for The 17th Annual Gambling Disorder Symposium at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, Michigan. This in-person event is the perfect opportunity to gain valuable insights into gambling prevention, connect with experts, and explore essential resources. If you or someone you know has been affected by problem gamblingContinue reading “Gambling Awareness Month: Know the Signs, Get Help, and Join the Conversation”

The Dearborn Police Department has introduced a new program called Parental Evaluation Resource Kits (PERK) to help families concerned about substance abuse in teens.  These kits come with a 5-panel drug and alcohol test, along with a nicotine screening tool, offering parents a discreet, at-home way to check if their child might be misusing illicitContinue reading “Substance Abuse in Teens: Dearborn Police Launch Free At-Home Drug Testing Kit Program for Parents”

The overdose crisis in America has reached unprecedented levels, claiming tens of thousands of lives each year.  In 2020, overdose deaths in the U.S. reached an all-time high of 93,331 in a single year. This is no longer just a crisis of opioids—it’s a multi-drug epidemic that has evolved over time. Here’s a closer lookContinue reading “Overdose Prevention: Programs and Resources to Save Lives in Dearborn”

The Leaders Advancing & Helping Communities (LAHC) office in Dearborn, Michigan, is offering a much-needed resource for individuals at risk of opioid and fentanyl overdoses.  Narcan kits can also benefit anyone who wants to be prepared in case of an accidental overdose, especially as fentanyl is increasingly found in street drugs. This small, discreet boxContinue reading “The Benefits of Narcan: How to Get Your Free Narcan Kit at LAHC’s Porch Box in Dearborn”

Substance abuse prevention programs focus on reducing the risk of substance use and addiction by addressing the root causes and educating individuals, families, and communities. In Wayne County, Michigan, where a diverse population resides, the effects of substance use are deeply felt within the overall community. It can tear families apart, harm relationships, and limitContinue reading “Take the First Step: Learn About Substance Abuse Prevention”