It’s National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week® (NDAFW) — a time dedicated to educating and empowering youth with science-based facts about substance use and addiction. Since its launch in 2010, NDAFW has provided an opportunity to engage communities in meaningful conversations about prevention, treatment, and recovery.
A Decline in Overdose Deaths—But the Work Continues
The latest provisional data from the CDC’s National Vital Statistics System predicts a nearly 24% decline in drug overdose deaths in the U.S. for the 12 months ending in September 2024, compared to the previous year (CDC, 2025). While this is encouraging news, overdose remains the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-44, underscoring the need for sustained prevention and harm reduction efforts.
This progress is thanks to the dedicated work of prevention specialists, harm reduction experts, treatment providers, peer recovery coaches, and community organizations. Our collective efforts include:
Expanding access to Naloxone (which can be ordered here)
Educating prescribers on responsible opioid prescribing
Connecting individuals to harm reduction and treatment resources
Strengthening peer recovery support networks
Building comprehensive, community-based prevention strategies
Despite this progress, nicotine vaping is on the rise, and there has been no significant change in underage alcohol or cannabis use (SAMHSA, 2024). For Michigan-specific data, click here.
Policy Updates & Impacts on Prevention Work
Renewed Public Health Emergency for the Opioid Crisis
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has extended the public health emergency declaration addressing the opioid crisis, preserving federal coordination efforts and key flexibilities. Originally set to expire on March 21, 2025, this extension allows for continued action in combating overdose deaths.
Executive Orders & Nonprofit Sector Impacts
Following the January 20, 2025, inauguration, President Trump signed executive orders affecting nonprofits. The National Council of Nonprofits is tracking these changes, offering:
A chart of executive orders impacting nonprofits
FAQs on federal policy shifts
A checklist for nonprofits navigating grant or contract terminations
SAMHSA Workforce Cuts & Congressional Inquiry
According to The New York Times, 10% of SAMHSA staff have been laid off, with additional cuts expected (NY Times, 2025). On March 6, members of Congress sent a letter to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. seeking clarification on these terminations. You can read the letter here.
Congressional Hearing on the Opioid Epidemic
At a March 6 Aging Committee Hearing, Chairman Scott (R-Fla.) and Ranking Member Gillibrand (D-NY) emphasized the need for urgent action to combat the opioid crisis. Experts and advocates called for:
Holistic prevention and treatment strategies
Stronger Medicaid & Medicare support for addiction treatment
Interdisciplinary addiction care teams
Increased access to non-opioid pain management
Robust data collection to inform policy decisions
HHS Rule Change & Implications
HHS has announced that it will no longer require notice-and-comment rulemaking for matters relating to agency management or personnel or to public property, loans, grants, benefits, or contracts. This change gives Secretary Kennedy more discretion by reducing public input in key decisions.
Nonprofit Sector Concerns
According to new research from the Center for Effective Philanthropy, 70% of nonprofit leaders report that the current political climate is negatively impacting the sector, while 19% remain uncertain about the future (Center for Effective Philanthropy, 2025). Most (66% of leaders) are concerned about uncertainty with funding levels and 55% are worried about changing priorities of funders.
How Prevention Professionals Can Navigate Uncertainty
With shifting policies, funding changes, and workforce disruptions, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But prevention professionals are resilient problem-solvers who have adapted to change before. Here are key steps to stay focused and proactive:
Revisit Your Mission & Values
Your mission, vision, and strategic plan are your anchors. Use them to guide decisions, whether it’s adjusting language, securing new funding, or refining programming. Don’t abandon your core principles without careful consideration — small adjustments may be enough to adapt.
Engage Your Community
Now is the time to bring people together. Listen to their concerns, gather diverse perspectives, and co-create solutions. Prevention work is strongest when done collaboratively.
Get Creative with Funding & Resources
Explore new funding sources and grant opportunities
Diversify revenue streams to enhance sustainability
Leverage discretionary dollars through fundraising events
Strengthen partnerships to share resources and reduce costs
Advocate for Prevention
Our work matters. Make sure policymakers, funders, and community members hear your prevention message. Advocacy is a critical tool for sustaining prevention efforts.
Prioritize Self-Care & Sustainability
This work is challenging, and population-level change takes time. Celebrate progress — big and small. Step back when needed, reset, and return when ready. Sustainable prevention starts with sustaining yourself.
Need Support? Let’s Connect.
If you need guidance navigating these changes, I’m here to help. Schedule a discovery call to explore how I can support your organization’s prevention efforts. You can also learn more about how I can help here.
Together, we can adapt, innovate, and maintain strong prevention efforts.