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Community-Based Prevention Works

Panaptic wraps its arms around the whole community. Because every person has an opportunity to help someone.

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Engaging Beyond
“Just Say No”

Our community-based prevention approach stands in stark contrast to other substance use prevention programs, which often fixate on the negative consequences of drug use without addressing the complex factors that drive substance abuse. The main issues with other programs include:

Lack of Engagement

These programs may fail to engage students effectively, as they often present a one-sided, fear-based message that may not resonate with the target audience.

Oversimplification

The “Just Say No” approach often oversimplifies the reasons why people use drugs, ignoring the social, emotional, and environmental factors that contribute to substance abuse.

Ineffectiveness of Fear Tactics

Research suggests that fear-based approaches alone are not very effective in preventing substance use, as they may not provide students with the tools and skills they need to make informed decisions.

Stigmatization

Such programs may inadvertently perpetuate biases about individuals struggling with substance abuse issues, creating barriers to seeking help.

Limited Real-World Application

Critics argue that these programs do not provide practical strategies for handling real-life situations and peer pressure related to drug use.

Our Method

Empowerment

We shift attitudes and empower your students to make smart choices. We spark conversations that challenge our perceptions and get results.

Communication

We open up communication channels about substance use between people in a community to deepen trust, interpersonal understanding, and support.

Research + Science Informed

We provide evidence-based and accurate information to educate and empower people in the community to make informed decisions about their health about substance use.

Client-Centered Approach

We learn about what you are already doing well and your challenges, so we can offer recommendations for integrating the program into your academic community.

Guidance Through Implementation

We make introducing our programs easy by partnering with you to tailor the message, launch the program, and support you through each step of the implementation process.

Monitoring Progress and Results

We assess what’s working well, target what’s needed, and follow up with outcome measures and detailed recommendations.

Get To Know Us

Meet The Experts in Community-Based Prevention

Meet the dynamic duo behind Panaptic: Dr. Sarah Ferraro Cunningham, PsyD, and Dr. Richard Von Feldt, PsyD. With extensive backgrounds in substance use prevention and intervention, they bring a wealth of experience to Panaptic’s mission of community-based prevention. Discover more about their inspiring journeys and how they’re leading the charge for a safer, healthier future.

Get to know us