Change the story: Redefining what “normal” means

How often have you heard someone say, “Everyone tries drugs at some point”? What if that’s simply not true and that false belief is what keeps the cycle going?

At Mondriaan Prevention, the mental health and addiction prevention branch of one of Limburg’s leading healthcare organizations, we work to shift perspectives before problems arise. Our mission: to help young adults make healthier choices, reduce harm, and foster communities that support mental well-being.

This PREMIUM project gives you the opportunity to create a real-world campaign that will be seen and used across the region. You will investigate the social norms and group dynamics that make drug use seem “normal,” explore how lifestyle and environment (like sports clubs, nightlife, and student associations) influence behaviour, and co-design creative interventions that change perceptions.

Working closely with Mondriaan’s experts in prevention, communication, and behavioural change, you will:

• Research how young adults perceive peer substance use and where those beliefs come from.

• Develop campaign concepts that speak authentically to students — using facts, empathy, and creativity.

• Prototype and test ideas that reduce peer pressure and promote conscious, healthy decision-making.

You will also gain unique insights into public health communication, social psychology, and prevention strategy, all while building something that could make a tangible difference in your own student community.

This is not just about “saying no.” It’s about redefining what is normal and empowering young people to make choices based on truth, not peer myths. Your ideas will feed directly into Mondriaan’s regional prevention programmes, helping shape future campaigns and interventions aimed at improving youth well-being across South-Limburg.

Join the project that busts myths, breaks pressure, and builds resilience.