Strategic Approaches to Prevention

Different prevention strategies can be used to address specific or general substance use. Prevention science involves using a planning framework that uses data to make informed decisions about what types of interventions are best suited to address substance abuse and its related problems in a community.

The Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF) uses a five-step planning process to guide states, jurisdictions, tribes, and communities in the selection, implementation, and evaluation of effective, culturally appropriate, and sustainable prevention activities.

The SPF provides a detailed process for communities to:

  • Assess their prevention needs based on epidemiological data
  • Build capacity for prevention
  • Develop a strategic plan that identifies goals, objectives, and strategies
  • Implement effective community prevention programs, policies, and practices
  • Evaluate their efforts for outcomes.

The resource guides and tip sheets in the sidebar will be helpful in planning a strategic and effective prevention approach.