Primary prevention takes focus on Overdose Awareness Day

Published on August 31, 2026

Various colorful pills spilled from an orange prescription bottle next to a syringe and a small plastic bag on a gray surface.

August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day. This year, August is also designated National Substance Use Primary Prevention Month. The Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment (WCDPHE) points out that the best way to prevent substance use is to stop it before it starts.

Primary prevention focuses on stopping substance use early, before it turns into regular use. It is a part of a broader response that also includes treatment, recovery support and overdose prevention.

“If we can give young people and families the knowledge, skills and support they need before substance use begins, we can help to prevent addiction and overdose from occurring in the first place,” said WCDPHE Substance Use and Injury Prevention Program Manager, Cathy Hoover.

WCDPHE’s Substance Use Disorder Education and Prevention Program supports primary prevention through education, community partnerships and programs that strengthen families and help young people build healthy decision-making and coping skills.

To learn more about WCDPHE substance use prevention programs and resources, visit www.weld.gov/go/SubstancePrevention.

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