As sheltering in place becomes the new normal in many areas of the US, millions are experiencing isolation, financial insecurity, and unprecedented levels of stress—at a time when physical distancing separates people from the support systems they need most.  

And as we move into the planning for our response, let’s remember that prevention practitioners have a proven track record of success in coordinating local public health responses to health emergencies. National emergency epidemiologic data demonstrate that state and local prevention efforts work: the overall prevalence of drinking among 12- to 20-year olds has declined by 32.9 percent since 2004, due in part to effective prevention initiatives.