According to the CDC, substance use refers to “the use of selected substances, including alcohol, tobacco products, illicit drugs, inhalants, and other substances that can be consumed, inhaled, or otherwise absorbed into the body with possible dependence and other detrimental effect” (CDC, 2024). People use drugs for many reasons, such as wanting to feel good, escape negative feelings, improve performance at school or work, or satisfy their curiosity. The desire to fit in, often influenced by peers, is particularly common among teens (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2022).

Early intervention targeting risk factors (e.g., aggressive behavior, poor self-control and lack of stress management) often has a greater impact than later intervention by directing a child’s life path away from problems and toward positive behaviors.

Beach Cities Health District initiatives such as the Drug-Free Communities Grant and associated Community Action Plan, the Beach Cities Partnership for Youth Coalition as well as the Youth Advisory Council and allcove Beach Cities Youth Advisory Group aim to address underlying factors contributing to youth substance in the Beach Cities.