Prevention Starts with a Conversation: October is Substance Use Prevention Month

BHDD encourages families, schools and communities to talk openly about substance use and support healthy choices

Columbia, S.C. – October 1, 2026 – The South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (BHDD) recognizes Substance Use Prevention Month this October by encouraging South Carolinians to start open, honest conversations about substance use, mental health, and the challenges young people may face.

Substance Use Prevention Month highlights the importance of education and early intervention before substance use problems begin. Prevention starts with creating environments where young people feel comfortable asking questions, talking about peer pressure, and making informed decisions about their health and wellbeing.

In South Carolina, prevention is a shared responsibility. Parents, caregivers, educators, coaches, and community leaders all play an important role in helping young people understand the risks of substance use and build healthy coping skills. Regular conversations can help strengthen trust, reduce stigma and make it easier for young people to seek support when they need it.

“Prevention does not have to start with a difficult conversation – it can start with a simple question,” said Sara Goldsby, director of the BHDD Office of Substance Use Services. “When young people know they have trusted adults who will listen without judgment, they are more likely to ask questions, talk about challenges, and make informed, healthy choices.”

Through Open Conversation SC, BHDD provides families, educators, and communities with tools and resources to make conversations about substance use more approachable. The campaign encourages adults to start early, listen without judgment, and keep the conversation going as children grow and face new experiences.

Prevention is not a one-time conversation. Talking regularly about mental health, peer pressure, substance use, and healthy choices can help young people develop the knowledge and confidence to navigate challenges before they become more serious.

South Carolinians can find conversation guides, prevention resources, and tips for talking with young people through Open Conversation SC at openconversationsc.com.

About the South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities

The South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is the cabinet agency for behavioral health care and specialized disability services. Working collaboratively, BHDD leads a statewide continuum of care so that every South Carolinian has the opportunity for a full and self-determined life.

For more information, visit www.bhdd.sc.gov.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For more information, contact:
Beth Moore, Communications Director
elizabeth.moore@oidd.bhdd.sc.gov