HC DrugFree

HC DrugFree is a Howard County nonprofit organization with a mission of empowering the community to raise drug-free youth.

09/17/2026

Connection can make a meaningful difference in a young person’s well-being.
The Maryland 2024–25 Youth Risk Behavior Survey shows encouraging signs: many students would feel comfortable asking a trusted adult for help. At the same time, nearly 1 in 3 middle and high school students reported feeling persistently sad or hopeless.

These results remind us that prevention starts with trusted relationships, early conversations, and making support easier to reach, while we continue building access to mental health resources so every young person can thrive.

Read the full Maryland Department of Health results:
https://buff.ly/VMqzdQm

09/14/2026

Researchers followed 602 residents living in Oxford House recovery homes for two years. Of those residents, 273 had a supportive family relationship, and they experienced better recovery outcomes over time than those without that support. Recovery scores also increased from 2.60 to 2.81 during the study, with recovery measured using a combination of factors including quality of life, self-esteem, stress, sense of community, and wages.

Family connections play a major role in recovery. Across related studies, family members accounted for 49% to 70% of the most important people in residents' support networks.

Oxford Houses are peer-run recovery residences where residents commit to abstinence, share household responsibilities, and support one another. Support can come from a trusted friend, a caring family member, a peer who listens, or a welcoming community. Building these healthy connections early may help people talk openly about challenges, seek help when needed, and reduce the risk of relapse.

Learn more about the study: https://buff.ly/ukWS7jm

09/07/2026

Emerging substance alert 🚨 : What is 7-OH❓️

7-OH is an opioid-like chemical sometimes marketed as “natural” or “enhanced kratom.” Concentrated products may be sold online and in stores, and can look like familiar items such as gummies or candy.

The DEA has filed its intent to temporarily schedule certain highly concentrated/synthetic 7-OH products and related substances.

Read labels closely, avoid products containing 7-OH, and keep Poison Help (1-800-222-1222) handy. If someone is unresponsive, call 911.

Keep medications in a secure location, out of the reach of children, teens, and pets. Storing medications safely can help prevent accidental poisoning, misuse, and diversion. If medication is no longer needed or has expired, dispose of it properly through a drug take-back program or other approved disposal method.

Learn more:
FDA: https://buff.ly/pyvQwS5
DEA: https://buff.ly/fkaA3zO

09/06/2026

Small Amounts. Huge Consequences

Raising awareness about how little it takes to cause a fatal overdose helps keep our friends, families, and neighbors safe. It is vital to stay in the know about these substances, talk openly with loved ones, and understand the hidden risks present in our communities today.

Keep all home medications locked up in a safe, secure location and out of reach of children and guests. Safely dispose of unused or expired drugs at a local drop box location.

09/04/2026

Healthy ways to reset can look different for everyone. Moving your body, making art, playing music, spending time with supportive friends, or trying another activity you enjoy can be part of caring for your mental health.

CDC’s Free Mind campaign helps youth ages 12–17 understand the connection between mental health and substance use, make healthy choices, and talk with trusted people when they need support. By promoting early conversations, building resilience, and encouraging help-seeking behaviors, families can support prevention before substance use begins.

Explore Free Mind: https://buff.ly/ieOvorw

09/02/2026

Whether it's being offered alcohol, feeling pressured by friends, or simply wanting to leave an uncomfortable situation, young people benefit from having a plan before those moments happen.

This short video shares practical strategies parents can use to prepare children and teens to respond confidently when faced with uncomfortable situations.

🎥 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edIDpdx05Rc

Simple conversations at home can make a lasting difference. Let your child know they can always call or text you if they need a ride or want to leave a situation—no questions asked in the moment. Practice responses they can use to decline alcohol or other substances and discuss ways to support friends in making healthy choices.

Research consistently shows that parents remain one of the strongest influences on a young person's decisions. Building trust through regular, judgment-free conversations helps children feel comfortable reaching out when they need support.

09/01/2026

Driving high is driving under the influence.

Never get behind the wheel impaired.

Remember to safely lock and secure all medications, alcohol, or other dangerous items in your home to prevent misues, unwanted access, or harm.

08/31/2026

TODAY is is International Overdose Awareness Day!

💙 Naloxone (Narcan) saves lives.

Knowing the signs of an opioid overdose and understanding how to use naloxone can help you respond during an emergency.

Everyone has a role in overdose prevention. Learn the facts, reduce stigma, and share lifesaving resources with your community.

08/27/2026

A national study of teens ages 11–18 found that teens who reported va**ng THC, C*D, or both also reported more anxiety and depression symptoms than teens who did not report cannabis va**ng.

The takeaway: Every type of cannabis va**ng in this study was linked with more reported mental health symptoms. Families can help prevent va**ng use and promote healthy behaviors by talking openly about cannabis va**ng, checking in about stress and mood, and connecting teens with support when needed.

Read the full study summary from the Recovery Research Institute:
https://buff.ly/e7go3gm

08/24/2026

Next Monday is International Overdose Awareness Day — a day to remember those who have lost their lives to overdose, support those affected, and raise awareness about prevention and recovery.

Every conversation, every resource shared, and every effort to reduce stigma can help save lives.

Prevention starts with education, compassion, and connection. Together, we can support healthier communities.

Address

5305 Village Center Drive #206
Columbia, MD
21044

Website

http://www.hcdrugfree.org/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when HC DrugFree posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to HC DrugFree:

Featured

Sponsored
NP OnCall LLC
1800 N Charles Street Suite 804, Baltimore

Want your practice to be the top-listed Clinic in Columbia?