Mountain State Times

The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), through its Office of Drug Control Policy (ODCP), has reported a further reduction in overdose fatalities within the state. Recent data indicates a provisional 34% decrease in overdose deaths when comparing the first four months of 2023 to the same period in 2024. This marks an improvement from last month's 28% drop.

Despite pending autopsies, officials do not expect the decrease to fall below 25%, highlighting West Virginia's ongoing efforts against the opioid crisis.

Dr. Stephen Loyd, Director of the DoHS Office of Drug Control Policy, emphasized that while the decline is promising, efforts must continue. "This decline in overdose deaths is a promising sign, but it’s not a signal to let up. We are not backing off–we are doubling down," he stated. "The fight to save lives continues. We’ve seen improvements, but our mission is far from complete."

Christina Mullins, Deputy Secretary of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders at DoHS, echoed this sentiment: "We’re proud of this progress, but this is not a victory lap. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much more we need to do."

The ODCP is working with the Governor’s Council on Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment to enhance efforts against substance use disorders by increasing naloxone distribution and expanding treatment programs. In 2024 alone, DoHS has distributed 72,437 naloxone kits and aims to surpass last year's record.

Since 2020, initiatives like West Virginia’s Save a Life Day have been supported by DoHS's ODCP and Bureau for Behavioral Health (BBH), contributing to engagement rates with opioid use disorder treatment programs that exceed national averages.

West Virginians facing addiction or mental health issues are encouraged to contact HELP4WV for support and resources.

For those interested in careers within behavioral health, opportunities can be found at www.governmentjobs.com/careers/wv.