What is the focus of secondary prevention in substance use interventions?

Secondary prevention in substance use interventions primarily aims to address early signs of substance use, thereby attempting to prevent the progression of use into more serious addiction. The focus here is on intervening before the use becomes problematic, often through education and targeted intervention efforts. This preventive approach seeks to stop experimental use by providing information about the risks associated with substance use and promoting healthier decision-making among individuals who may be dabbling with drugs or alcohol.

While the other options touch upon important aspects of substance use interventions, they represent different stages or focuses. For instance, promoting overall wellness and healthy lifestyles pertains to primary prevention, which targets the population at large to reduce the chances of substance use before it starts. Developing coping strategies for existing users is more aligned with treatment and recovery efforts, which are beyond the secondary prevention stage. Similarly, assisting individuals in rejoining mainstream society speaks to the post-recovery reintegration phase, focusing on support systems and community resources rather than prevention of initial use.