The Department for National Drug Control is currently observing National Prevention Week which started on May 14 and will conclude on May 19.

The observance is in keeping with the US Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) recognition of the occasion, explained a Government spokesperson.

This year’s theme is ‘Making Each Day Count, and “highlights the important role that individuals and communities have in helping people lead healthy, productive lives.”

In an effort to continue fostering partnerships in Bermuda’s community, the DNDC’s Drug Prevention Unit will be visiting Primary level 1 students this week in the Western School zone to share information on the negative effects of drugs and alcohol.

The Director of the DNDC, Joanne Dean said: “The DNDC recognises that young children must learn as early as possible to be resilient and make drug free choices and will be assisting educators in laying the foundation for healthy and successful students.

“In that regard, our students will be informed that drugs are mind-altering substances that affect the brain and impairs judgment, motivation, decision-making and their well-being.

“The DNDC also views Prevention Week 2017 as an important opportunity to focus on areas in drug prevention that need support and improvement. Research has proven that prevention works and evidence based programmes have a high success rate in terms of reducing the onset of addiction and associated behaviours.

“The DNDC will seek to expand on evidenced based prevention programming as part of school curriculums and recreational programmes that serve youth. Everyone has a role in creating a healthier community.

“As the DNDC joins the many organisations that support SAMHSA’s National Prevention Week 2017, we would like to thank our Drug Prevention Partners, PRIDE (Bermuda) and CADA who have been committed to drug prevention efforts for the betterment of our local community.”

For further information about Prevention Week activities, contact Shavana Wilson, Prevention Officer, Department for National Drug Control at 292-3049.