The Power of Showing Up Before It’s Too Late

“Connection is why we’re here. It’s what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.” – Brené Brown

October is National Substance Abuse Prevention Month, a time to honor those in recovery, remember those we’ve lost, and strengthen our communities through prevention. It’s not just about avoiding harmful choices. It’s about building a world where people feel seen, supported, and safe enough to ask for help before the pain becomes too heavy to carry alone.

We often think of prevention as rules, programs, or campaigns. But at its core, prevention is human. It’s about belonging, love, and compassion. It’s about showing up for one another and replacing shame with understanding.

Why Prevention Matters

1. Substance use often begins in silence
   Many people who struggle with substance use don’t start with a desire to harm themselves. It begins with pain, disconnection, or unmet needs. When we create environments where people feel they belong, we reduce the need to numb that pain.
2. Early support changes everything
   Prevention is not about control; it’s about care. When we talk openly about stress, mental health, and healthy coping, we create opportunities for people to seek help early rather than in crisis.
3. Stigma keeps people stuck
   Shame is one of the biggest barriers to prevention and recovery. When we label, judge, or avoid the conversation, people retreat deeper into isolation. Compassion and curiosity open the door to healing.
4. Community is the foundation
   Connection protects. Families, workplaces, schools, and communities that foster openness and trust can make a life-changing difference. Prevention happens when we build relationships where people feel seen and valued.

What Prevention Looks Like

• Honest conversations
  Ask real questions like, “How are you coping lately?” or “What do you need right now?” Listening without judgment can be the most powerful act of prevention.
• Education without fear
  Share facts about substance use and addiction in ways that encourage understanding, not shame. People are more open to change when they feel respected.
• Healthy coping and role modeling
  Whether you are a parent, friend, or leader, show others that it’s okay to rest, ask for help, and manage stress in healthy ways.
• Safe spaces for vulnerability
  Create environments—at home, work, or school—where people can be honest about what they’re feeling without fear of punishment or ridicule.
• Community involvement
  Volunteer, share prevention messages, or support recovery-friendly initiatives. Each action, no matter how small, sends the message that people matter more than their mistakes.

An Invitation

This month let’s move from awareness to action.

• Reach out to someone who might be struggling and simply listen.
• Start a conversation about mental health and coping in your community or workplace.
• Share resources for prevention, treatment, and recovery.
• Remind the young people in your life that asking for help is brave, not weak.
• Reflect on your own story and the moments when someone’s kindness made a difference.

Prevention is not a one-time campaign. It’s a practice of compassion that starts with each of us choosing connection over silence.

Helpful Resources

• SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration): samhsa.gov/prevention
• National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• Recovery Friendly Workplace: recoveryfriendlyri.com
• Local prevention coalitions or community centers