Frequently Asked Questions
Answers for teens, parents, and educators — honestly, without judgment.
What exactly does ESCAPE do?
We run drug-prevention programs for teens: school workshops, peer mentorship, family education nights, and educator training. Our goal is to prevent substance use before it starts — through Awareness, Prevention & Education.
Why ESCAPE and not D.A.R.E.?
Because we lived it. Our founders, Alex and Jillian, sat through D.A.R.E. in class — and it didn't stop them. Like a lot of students, they still risked everything experimenting, and they carry the real consequences of that with them. Lectures and scare tactics never reached them — so ESCAPE was built to be what would have: students talking honestly to students, sharing what actually happens, with real skills instead of slogans.
How do I talk to my teen about drugs without pushing them away?
Start curious, not accusatory. Ask open questions ("What do kids at school think about vaping?"), listen more than you talk, and keep it ongoing — many small conversations beat one big lecture. Our Family Education Nights and SAMHSA's "Talk. They Hear You." resources walk you through it.
Is vaping really that harmful for teens?
Yes — most vapes contain high levels of nicotine, which is especially addictive to a developing brain, and many contain unregulated chemicals. It's one of the most common entry points to other substance use, which is why it's a core focus of our workshops.
What are the warning signs of substance use?
Common early signs: sudden changes in friends, grades, or sleep; secrecy about whereabouts; missing money or valuables; unusual smells; new slang or paraphernalia. One sign alone isn't proof — the pattern matters. When in doubt, ask — calmly.
What is fentanyl and why does it matter for teens?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid ~50x stronger than heroin, now commonly hidden in counterfeit pills sold as Xanax, Adderall, or Percocet — pills teens may think are "safe." One pill can kill. Never take a pill that didn't come from a pharmacy.
My teen is already using — what do I do?
You don't have to figure this out alone. Call SAMHSA's free, confidential helpline at 1-800-662-4357 (24/7) for treatment referrals, or contact us — we'll connect you with local support without judgment.
Do your programs cost money?
Our mission is prevention for every teen — we work with schools and organizations to keep programs accessible. Contact us to talk about your school's needs.
Can you come to our school or event?
Yes — that's exactly what we do. Contact us and we'll tailor a workshop or session to your students and schedule.
Is naloxone (Narcan) something we should know about?
Yes — naloxone reverses opioid overdoses and is available without a prescription in most states. We recommend parents and educators keep it accessible. Ask your pharmacist, or ask us at a Family Education Night.
Will you judge me or my child?
No. Substance use is a health issue, not a moral failure. Everything we do is built on compassion and honesty — teens shut down around shame, so we don't use it.