BACKGROUND-AIM:
The Clear Head Project is a peer education initiative aimed at increasing awareness of the health consequences of nicotine, alcohol, and drug use among adolescents. Early initiation of substance use is associated with significant short- and long-term physical and mental health risks. The project aims to educate individuals aged 12–19 and promote evidence-based knowledge through a peer-to-peer approach.

METHODS:
The project is implemented by medical students from the Public Health Student Research Group at Gdańsk Medical University in collaboration with local schools. It targets students in the final grades of primary school and high school. Educational sessions are conducted using a peer-to-peer methodology, creating a supportive and open environment that encourages discussion. The program includes interactive elements and real-life case studies based on clinical experience to illustrate the consequences of early substance use. Participants are encouraged to engage actively, ask questions, and critically assess information, particularly in relation to misinformation encountered on social media. The initiative is voluntary and supported by the university through educational materials.

RESULTS:
The project has been successfully implemented in local schools, receiving positive feedback from both students and educators. The peer-based approach has increased engagement and facilitated open discussion. Participants showed improved awareness of substance-related health risks and greater ability to distinguish reliable information from misinformation.

CONCLUSIONS:
Peer-to-peer education is an effective method for promoting health awareness among adolescents. The Clear Head Project demonstrates strong potential for further development and expansion, contributing to long-term prevention of substance use. This project demonstrates how locally rooted coalitions can adapt, persist and sustain evidence-informed prevention efforts despite funding constraints