Substance Abuse Prevention

Prevention refers to interventions that seek to delay the age of first use or reduce/prevent high-risk or harmful use. The definition of prevention can extend to a wide range of activities. These activities span from awareness raising, education, and policy development.

For more information about assessment, referral, treatment and counseling services available at the Timiskaming Health Unit, please visit the Substance Abuse section.

What is a Drug?

Scientifically, a drug is "any substance, other than food, which is taken to change the way the body or the mind functions." Drugs may or may not come from doctors or drug stores. They may or may not have medicinal properties or purposes. Drugs can come from plants grown in fields, or they can be manufactured in labs. They can be legal or illegal. They can be harmful or helpful.

Adapted from: University of Ottawa, Health Services.