Care Coordination Programs Are Key to Lasting Impact. Recently, The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) officially launched Free Mind, a new national campaign designed to raise awareness of the connection between mental health and substance use in youth ages 12 to 17. The campaign aims to support families, caregivers, and communities in addressing these issues early, before they escalate into crises.
According to the CDC, many teens may turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with underlying feelings of depression, anxiety, trauma, or stress. The Free Mind campaign promotes honest conversations and early intervention to help teens manage their mental health in healthier ways.
“Teens may use alcohol and other substances to help them cope with stress, anxiety, and depression,” said Dr. Allison Arwady, Director of the CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. “Talking openly about mental health and substance use is critical to helping teens stay healthy.”
Why This Campaign Matters
The urgency of this initiative is underscored by troubling national trends:
- In 2024, over 80,000 Americans died from drug overdoses.
- Between 2020–2024, 75% of overdose deaths among youth ages 10–19 involved illegally manufactured fentanyl.
- In 2023, 40% of high school students reported they had stopped regular activities due to persistent sadness or hopelessness, and 1 in 5 seriously considered suicide.
The Free Mind campaign is designed to reach youth and families with practical tools for prevention, recognition of warning signs, and access to support. It includes:
- A comprehensive Free Mind Toolkit for schools and community groups
- Guidance for parents on talking with teens about mental health and substance use
- Information about how mental health conditions can increase the risk of substance use and vice versa
