Ninety-four percent of Douglas County teens have never misused prescription pain medicine. As a community, it is our job to build on this success by celebrating the healthy choices our youth are making and educating them about the dangers of opioid use.
On Monday, Nov. 10, the Douglas County Opioid Council launched a new public awareness campaign designed to reinforce the positive social norms among teens who choose to live life substance-free. View the news conference here.
Research shows that when teens learn that most of their peers are making positive choices and not using substances, they are likely to make healthy choices themselves and support their friends in doing the same.
That’s why the Council collaborated with real Douglas County teens to design a campaign that highlights their personal stories and their ‘why’ for opting out of substance use. By amplifying their voices, the campaign shines a light on the majority making healthy choices.
The campaign also emphasizes that one pill can kill, underscoring the importance of educating youth about the dangers of opioid use.
“Our youth are showing incredible leadership by choosing to live substance-free,” said Douglas County Commissioner and Cochair of the Douglas County Opioid Council Abe Laydon. “This campaign celebrates those positive choices and reminds us that the best way to protect our kids is to lift up the good that’s already happening in our community, while at the same time serving as a reminder that one pill can kill.”
“Investing vital resources in our communities not only strengthens our programs but also saves lives — from our youth to our seniors,” said Castle Pines City Councilman and Council Cochair Roger Hudson. “By focusing on local solutions, we empower individuals to reclaim their lives and build a brighter future, fostering a healthier, more resilient community for all.”
Visit OurUnfilteredVoices.org to learn more about the campaign and hear the stories of three Douglas County teens.
The campaign will roll out across social media and local outreach efforts in the coming months. Be sure to follow the Douglas County Opioid Council on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.