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National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week: Empowering Teens With the Truth
National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week: Empowering Teens With the Truth
Each year during National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW), communities across the country come together to share science-based facts about substance use and addiction. At ACTS, we believe that accurate information – especially for teens – is one of the strongest tools in preventing confusion, reducing stigma, and supporting healthy choices.
Why Facts Matter
Teenagers are at a unique point in life: their brains are still developing, they’re learning to make independent decisions, and they’re exposed to messages about drugs and alcohol from many directions—friends, social media, pop culture, and more. Unfortunately, misinformation is everywhere too.
Myths like “You have to use drugs a long time before they can hurt you” or “If you feel normal, the substance must be out of your system” can paint an inaccurate picture of risk, leading teens to underestimate the real dangers of substance use.
ACTS Myth-Busting Playlist for Teens
To help teens – and anyone interested = get the facts straight, we created a series of YouTube Shorts that debunk 10 common myths about drugs and alcohol. These short, engaging videos are designed to be easy to watch and share, especially on platforms teens use every day.
Watch the full playlist here: https://bit.ly/4al92Rh
Supporting Teens With Knowledge and Compassion
Understanding facts is only part of the equation. It’s just as important that teens feel supported, heard, and safe when asking questions about drugs and alcohol. Open conversations with trusted adults – parents, teachers, mentors – can make a meaningful difference.
At ACTS, we’re committed to education, compassion, and evidence-based support for individuals and families affected by substance use – at every age and stage of life.
Get Involved
- Watch and share the playlist with teens and young adults
- Start a conversation at home, school, or in your community
- Connect with ACTS for more resources, support, and help
Together, we can break down myths and build up understanding—one fact at a time.
The Role of Nutrition in Mental Health and Recovery
The Role of Nutrition in Mental Health and Recovery
What we eat affects more than physical health—it plays an important role in mood, energy, and overall stability. For individuals experiencing mental health challenges or working toward recovery from substance use, nutrition can support healing and long-term wellness.
How Nutrition Supports Brain Health
The brain depends on nutrients to regulate mood, focus, and stress. Protein helps produce key brain chemicals that influence emotions, while healthy fats support brain structure and function. Vitamins and minerals help manage energy and the body’s stress response.
When nutrition is inconsistent, the brain may struggle to function well, which can worsen symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and fatigue.
The Impact on Mental Health and Recovery
Poor nutrition and irregular eating patterns can contribute to mood swings and low energy. Balanced meals, on the other hand, help maintain steady blood sugar levels, which support emotional regulation and concentration.
Substance use can interfere with appetite, digestion, and nutrient absorption. During recovery, the body and brain work to rebalance, making healthy eating especially important for restoring energy and clarity.
Nutrition, Energy, and Stability
Skipping meals or relying heavily on processed foods can lead to energy crashes that affect motivation and mood. Regular meals that include protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can help sustain energy and support daily routines.
This consistency can make it easier to manage stress and stay engaged in recovery.
Simple Ways to Support Healthier Eating
Small, realistic steps can make a difference:
- Eat regularly throughout the day
- Include protein with meals
- Choose whole foods when possible
- Stay hydrated
- Focus on progress, not perfection
Supporting Recovery at ACTS
Recovery and mental wellness involve caring for the whole person—mind and body. Nutrition is one important piece of that journey.
If you or someone you care about is seeking mental health or substance use treatment and recovery support, ACTS is here to help. Our programs provide compassionate care, guidance, and resources to support long-term wellness.
Learn more or get help today: www.actsfl.org | 813-246-4899
Inside ACTS
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