Substance Use Prevention – Northeast Nebraska Public Health Department

Evidence-based prevention programs reducing youth substance use across Cedar, Dixon, Thurston, and Wayne counties.

NNPHD’s Substance Use Prevention programs work with schools, families, and community partners to reduce youth substance use and promote emotional wellness across our region.

About Our Programs

Substance use prevention is one of the most effective ways to improve long-term community health. By providing evidence-based education to youth and supporting families with resources and skills, we help prevent the lifelong consequences of addiction and protect mental well-being.

NNPHD partners with schools across Cedar, Dixon, Thurston, and Wayne counties to deliver engaging, age-appropriate prevention programs.

Our Prevention Programs

Catch My Breath

Catch My Breath is an evidence-based youth e-cigarette and vaping prevention program developed by the University of Texas Health Science Center. The program uses peer-led instruction, interactive activities, and digital content to help middle school and high school students understand the risks of vaping and build skills to refuse e-cigarettes.

Designed for students in grades 5–12
Four class periods of engaging, standards-aligned lessons
Delivered free to participating schools
Includes parent outreach materials

Vaping Facts for Parents

Many parents don’t know the signs of youth vaping or the current risks of e-cigarettes. Vaping Facts for Parents is a free community education program offering:

What vaping devices look like (they’re often disguised)
Health risks specific to developing brains and lungs
Signs your child may be vaping
How to talk with your child about tobacco and nicotine
Local resources for help quitting

Distracted Driving

The Distracted Driving program raises awareness about the dangers of operating a vehicle while distracted by mobile devices, passengers, or other activities. Through interactive demonstrations and educational content, participants gain a deeper understanding of how distractions impact reaction time, decision-making, and overall roadway safety.

Fatal Vision & Intoxiclock

Tobacco Compliance

The Tobacco Compliance program supports retailers and communities in preventing the sale of tobacco and nicotine products to underage individuals. The program focuses on regulatory education, responsible retail practices, and community awareness to promote youth health and reduce access to harmful substances.

Responsible Beverage Server Training

Responsible Beverage Server Training provides alcohol servers and sellers with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve responsibly and in compliance with the law. Training topics include proper identification checks, recognizing signs of intoxication, preventing over-service, and reducing alcohol-related harm within licensed establishments.

Schools

Teachers, counselors, and administrators can request in-school programs.

Parent Groups

PTAs, booster clubs, and parent networks can book community presentations.

Community Organizations

Churches, service clubs, youth organizations can host educational events.

Law Enforcement

Partner agencies can coordinate prevention programming and events.

Why It Matters

Substance use often begins in adolescence. The earlier young people begin using alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs, the more likely they are to develop a substance use disorder later in life. Prevention programs delay initiation, build refusal skills, and help young people develop healthy coping strategies.