Published on Oct 25, 2023 | 2:32 PM
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What Is Red Ribbon Week?
Red Ribbon Week is a national drug and alcohol prevention awareness campaign observed annually in the United States, typically during the last week of October. It is designed to promote healthy, drug-free lifestyles among children, adolescents, families, and communities.
The campaign encourages education, open conversation, and community involvement around substance use prevention, with a strong emphasis on youth awareness and early intervention.
Red Ribbon Week began in 1985 following the death of DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, who was killed while investigating drug trafficking. In response, communities started wearing red ribbons to honor his sacrifice and to symbolize a commitment to living drug-free.
What started as a grassroots movement grew into the largest drug prevention campaign in the United States, supported by schools, families, healthcare organizations, and community groups nationwide.
The red ribbon serves as a visible symbol of:
Awareness of substance misuse and its impact
Commitment to healthy, drug-free choices
Support for prevention education and community responsibility
Wearing a red ribbon represents a personal and collective pledge to make safe, healthy decisions.
Substance use often begins during adolescence, making early education and prevention critical. Red Ribbon Week provides an opportunity to start age-appropriate conversations about drugs, alcohol, peer pressure, and decision-making.
Research consistently shows that prevention programs focused on education, family involvement, and skill-building can reduce risky behaviors and support long-term health outcomes.
Red Ribbon Week is observed by:
Schools and educators
Students of all ages
Parents and families
Community organizations
Healthcare providers
Activities may include school assemblies, classroom discussions, themed spirit days, educational materials, and community events focused on prevention and wellness.
Healthcare providers play an important role in substance use prevention by offering education, screening, and early support. Routine conversations about mental health, stress, and coping strategies help identify risk factors before substance misuse develops.
Access to confidential medical guidance also reduces stigma and encourages individuals and families to seek help when concerns arise.
Call-On-Doc supports prevention and education by providing accessible, judgment-free healthcare for individuals and families.
Through telehealth, patients can:
Discuss concerns about substance use or mental health
Receive screening and education
Access care early without barriers or stigma
Healthcare that fits your life — not your calendar.
updated 01/26/2026 Shelly House, FNP, is a Family Nurse Practitioner and Call-On-Doc’s trusted medical education voice. With extensive experience in telehealth and patient-centered care, Ms. House is dedicated to making complex health topics simple and accessible. Through evidence-based content, provider collaboration, and a passion for empowering patients, her mission is to break down barriers to healthcare by delivering clear, compassionate, and practical medical guidance.
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