Healthy Decision-Making
Preventing the Next First Use Starts with Healthy Choices
Healthy decision-making plays an important role in preventing early substance use and supporting long-term well-being. Young people face many influences every day - including peer pressure, stress, social media, curiosity, and the desire to fit in. Learning how to think through choices, manage pressure, and make healthy decisions can help youth build confidence and avoid risky behaviors.
Preventing the next first use starts by helping youth feel informed, supported, and empowered to make choices that protect their health and future.
Why It Matters
The choices youth make during adolescence can affect:
- • physical and mental health,
- • relationships,
- • academic success,
- • emotional well-being,
- • and future opportunities.
Developing strong decision-making skills can help youth:
- • manage peer pressure,
- • build self-confidence,
- • strengthen resilience,
- • reduce risky behaviors,
- • and make healthier choices in difficult situations.
Supportive families, schools, and communities all play a role in helping young people feel connected, valued, and prepared to make positive decisions.
Download Resources
Youth Fact Sheet
A youth-focused resource that encourages confidence, healthy coping skills, and positive decision-making.
Parent/ Caregiver Fact Sheet
A guide for parents and caregivers focused on communication, support, and helping youth navigate challenges and peer influences.
Click Image to Download Youth Fact Sheet
Click Image to Download Parent/Caregiver Fact Sheet
Need Support?
Hazel Pittman Center provides prevention, education, behavioral health services, and community support resources for youth and families.
