Risk & Protective Factors
(Source: youth.gov)
Research shows that the risk for substance abuse and other adverse behaviors increases as the number of risk factors increases, and that protective factors may reduce the risk of youth engaging in substance use that can lead to substance abuse. More Info on Risk & Protective Factors
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that can increase the likelihood of substance use disorder. Risk factors include:
- Family history of addiction
- Exposure to trauma
- Mental Health concerns
- Behavioral or impulse control problems
- Early initiation of drug use
- Environmental factors
- Availability of alcohol and drugs
- Academic failure
- Perceived risk of drug use
- Friends who use drugs
Protective Factors
A protective factor is something that can reduce the possibility of substance abuse. Protective factors include:
- Family attachment and bonding
- Parental engagement in child’s life
- Participation in prosocial activities with family, school and community
- Educational success
- Development of positive coping skills
- Resilience
- Positive modeling by parents/caregivers
Local Prevention Services for Youth
Prevention education and skill building taught in schools and supported by the community is crucial to the development of healthy informed young people.
Twin County Recovery Services provides evidence-based programming, and Intervention Counselors in Columbia and Greene Counties. These programs are approved by NYS OASAS, and SAMHSA (Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration). These programs lay the groundwork for safe and drug-free living through age appropriate information and interactive activities.
Youth Clubhouses of Hudson & Catskill support prevention efforts by providing educational outreach to youth in school settings, community settings and at their drop in locations in Hudson and Catskill. Harm Reduction, information and Peer Support allow for an increase in protective factors for youth of all ages.
Mountaintop Cares Coalition offers prevention education for communities, youth, families and anyone else residing in Greene County, with a special focus on the mountaintop!
Columbia County Pathways to Recovery offers prevention education for communities, youth, families and anyone needing support in Columbia County!
Columbia-Greene Addiction Coalition works collaboratively with these agencies to coordinate outreach and educational events for community members, including youth, businesses, local government, educational institutions, civic organizations, religious sectors and beyond! Contact us today info@c-gac.org to schedule an informational session in your community.