Emerging drug trends show a clear connection between student disconnection, mental health struggles, and substance misuse. Students who feel isolated are more likely to self-medicate with drugs, creating safety risks for themselves and others. This session explores how fostering belonging—through peer mentoring, student clubs, and service-learning—serves as a protective factor. Participants will gain strategies to build community-driven prevention efforts that strengthen student mental health, reduce drug misuse, and create safer school environments.