Delving deeper into YUMADOP and substance abuse prevention in Youngstown, Ohio

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) – The Youngstown Urban Minority Alcohol and Drug Abuse Awareness Program (YUMADOP) aims to prevent Youngstown residents from abusing substances. WKBN Community Affairs Director Dee Crawford talks in-depth with YUMADOP Executive Director Darryl Alexander about how they serve people of all ages.

In the 1970s, the message was “Say no,” but things have changed and prevention has evolved.

“The science of prevention has developed and flourished. What has changed is that we really have a good theoretical and practical understanding of what to do and what types of programs to implement to ideally deter our young and elderly people from addiction.

In some populations, risk factors and protective factors play an important role. The more risk factors you have, the greater the likelihood of addiction. Alexander said programs should reduce these risk factors and increase protective factors.

“Is there any family history of use?” If you look at the young person’s peers, associations — who is involved with the young person? How many liquor stores do you have in a particular area? he said.

Socioeconomic issues play a role as well as ease of access.

Dee continues the conversation with Alexander on Wednesday as they explore these questions.