New approaches to substance misuse prevention take center stage at annual summit
August 13 event will feature experts in prevention, treatment, recovery and behavioral health.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:August 11, 2026
LAS VEGAS – Public health professionals, behavioral health experts, community leaders and advocates will gather Thursday, August 13, for the seventh annual Substance Misuse and Overdose Prevention Summit hosted by the Southern Nevada Health District. The event will explore the latest approaches to preventing substance misuse, reducing overdose deaths and supporting long-term recovery.
The summit will be held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Tuscany Suites & Casino, 255 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89169.
This year’s theme, “The Science of Hope: Strategies to Reduce Substance Use and Build Resilience in Our Community,” highlights evidence-based approaches that strengthen prevention efforts, improve access to treatment and recovery services, and build healthier, more resilient communities.
The sold-out event is presented by the Health District in partnership with the PACT Coalition, Nevada High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area and the Nevada Institute for Children’s Research & Policy.
“Communities make the greatest progress when prevention, rescue, treatment and recovery work together,” said Dr. Cassius Lockett, District Health Officer for the Southern Nevada Health District. “This summit brings together experts and community partners to share practical strategies, emerging research and real-world solutions that help save lives and strengthen recovery efforts throughout Southern Nevada.”
Summit sessions will explore a wide range of timely issues, including:
- Emerging drug trends, overdose response and prevention strategies.
- Integrated approaches to mental health and substance use care.
- Peer-recovery support, lived experience and recovery-friendly workplace initiatives.
- Community partnerships to strengthen prevention, treatment, rescue and recovery efforts.
The keynote speaker is Mary Jadwisiak, founder and CEO of Holding the Hope, a behavioral health consulting and training organization focused on peer support and recovery. Additional presenters include experts from the Health District, the PACT Coalition, Foundation for Recovery, U.S. VETS Las Vegas and other behavioral health and community organizations.
The summit will also feature a panel discussion, “The Long Game: A Decade of Coalition-Driven Overdose Prevention in Southern Nevada,” recognizing the Southern Nevada Opioid Advisory Council as it marks its 10th anniversary.
For more information, visit Substance Misuse and Overdose Prevention Summit.
The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.