Economic Stability. Education Access and Quality. Health Care Access and Quality. Neighborhoods and Build Environments. Social and Community Context. These are the common themes of Social Determinants referred to in substance misuse prevention efforts. What relationship do the Social Determinants of Health have with substance misuse prevention? If our focus is substance misuse prevention, is it possible to collaborate with community partners who also focus on the Social Determinants of Health? While paying attention to the Social Determinants of Health in addition to our other work might feel like an overwhelming task, the research – and experience – inform us that people fare better when social determinants are centered when planning interventions.

This virtual learning series will explore several connections between the social determinants of health to substance use and the consequences, and how awareness and understanding of the social determinants can strengthen your prevention planning efforts.

We will review the social determinants of health and how several impact substance use risk and protective factors, explore how to build prevention plans on an understanding of how the social determinants of health influence use, outline the benefit of partnering with organizations with experience addressing the social determinants and working with populations most impacted.

Session 2 will review strategies to integrate the social determinants of health into work with community members and partners. Attending both sessions is recommended but not required.