Complete Master Addiction Counselor Practice Test 2026

The correct answer is primary, secondary, and tertiary, which are the universally recognized categories of prevention in public health, including substance use disorders.

Primary prevention aims to prevent the onset of substance use by promoting healthy lifestyles and behaviors before issues arise. This could include education about the risks of drug use, conducting awareness campaigns to discourage use, or creating policies that reduce access to substances.

Secondary prevention focuses on early identification and intervention for individuals at risk of developing substance use disorders. This can involve screenings for substance use, providing resources for at-risk individuals, and offering early treatment programs to prevent progression.

Tertiary prevention addresses the needs of individuals who are already experiencing substance use disorders. This could involve rehabilitation services, support groups, and ongoing counseling to help individuals recover and reintegrate into society, minimizing the impacts of addiction.

The other options do not represent the established categories of prevention in public health and therefore do not accurately reflect the framework used by the US Public Health Service. Understanding these categories helps clarify strategies for effective intervention and support in the realm of substance use.