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Prevention ​

Local strategies to reduce the impact of mental and behavioral health in the community

Prevention and early intervention strategies can reduce the impact of mental health and substance use disorders in our community. Prevention approaches help people develop the knowledge, attitudes, and skills to make good choices or change harmful behaviors.

Substance use and mental health disorders can make daily activities difficult and impair a person’s ability to work, interact with family, and fulfill other primary life functions. They can also increase the risk of developing other chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease.

Local Prevention Initiatives

Online Learning for Parents

SMCHD has developed a free online learning course as a resource for parents and guardians concerned about drug use in our community. The course has six modules:

  • Understanding teen drug use and addiction
  • Prevention conversations (for children of all ages)
  • Preventing teen drug use: Spot warning signs
  • What to do if you think your child is using drugs
  • Navigating treatment & recovery
  • Responding to overdose

You can navigate directly to any modules or subsections that interest you. The modules can be completed in any order, and you can return to any module or subsection at any time.

Mon – Fri: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Mon – Fri: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm

Mon & Thurs: 7:00 am – 2:00 pm
Tues, Wed, & Fri: 7:00 am – 4:30 pm

News & Updates

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Copyright © 2025 · SMCHD is a local agency of Maryland Department of Health.

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