Addiction prevention operates on various levels, each designed to address different stages in the spectrum of substance use and potential addiction. Universal prevention strategies are applied broadly, targeting the general population, to deter substance use across entire communities or societies. Selective prevention focuses on individuals or subgroups at higher risk of developing addiction due to factors such as family history, economic conditions, or social environments. Lastly, the indicated prevention is directed toward individuals who have already exhibited early signs of problematic substance use but have not yet reached the threshold of dependency. This tiered approach allows for interventions to be more effectively tailored to the needs of different groups, enhancing the overall effectiveness of prevention efforts.