Substance misuse and related behavioral health problems such as injury, addiction, and overdose are pressing personal and public health concerns. To successfully address these problems in states, tribes, jurisdictions, and communities, prevention planners need information about the effectiveness of available programs and practices. They also need to know how to determine which options have the greatest potential to work well in their unique settings and how to proceed if no viable options are available. To help meet these needs SAMHSA has developed this guidance document.

This resource places the selection of programs and practices within the broader context of evidence-based prevention. Specifically, it explores the following:
• The value of embedding program and practice selection in a strategic planning process
• Where to find information on programs and practices and how to choose among them
• Tips for adopting, adapting, and innovating programs and practices and for supporting their successful implementation and continual improvement at the local level.

Supporting materials at the end of this resource provide additional information on these topics.