Portugal's ICAD launches first national youth drug‑prevention campaign in a decade

On International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Institute for Addictive Behaviours and Dependencies (ICAD) in Portugal unveiled a 12‑month digital campaign called “Bom é Poder Decidir – As tuas escolhas, a tua saúde!” aimed at young people. It is the first universal prevention effort of its kind in more than ten years.

ICAD president said, “É fundamental fazer uma campanha destas porque é muito importante apostar na prevenção…”, stressing the goal of reducing future social and health costs. The campaign targets five protective factors – self‑esteem, sense of belonging, healthy leisure, healthy habits (nutrition, exercise) and emotional well‑being – through five videos and a psychologist helpline (1414). It is a joint initiative with the Polícia Judiciária and may involve influencers. Recent drug‑use data show overall illicit consumption falling but higher severity among users.