The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), through its Bureau for Behavioral Health (BBH), has designated October as Substance Use & Misuse Prevention Month. The initiative focuses on the importance of early intervention and prevention strategies to support better health outcomes across the state.
“Prevention is a cornerstone of public health and community well-being,” said Alex Mayer, Cabinet Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Human Services. “By prioritizing prevention and early intervention, we help families thrive, strengthen communities, and give West Virginians the tools they need to avoid substance misuse before it starts.”
The DoHS works with six Regional Prevention Lead Organizations to implement evidence-based programs that are tailored to local needs. In addition, the Expanded School Mental Health program offers behavioral health services in schools across 29 counties. These programs include curricula that focus on social-emotional learning and refusal skills for students.
Integrated care is provided through six certified community behavioral health clinics in West Virginia, offering coordinated physical and behavioral health services statewide. The Transitional Living for Vulnerable Youth program supports young people aged 17–21 who are transitioning from foster care or mental health treatment to independent living by providing stable housing and additional support.
Christina Mullins, DoHS Deputy Secretary of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders, stated: “Everyone has a role in supporting prevention. Parents, teachers, mentors, and neighbors can all help young people build skills and resilience that reduce the risk of substance use.”
Resources are available around the clock through First Choice Services, which include the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and 844-HELP4WV (844-435-7498), connecting residents with behavioral health and substance use resources when needed.
Elizabeth Hardy, Commissioner of the DoHS Bureau for Behavioral Health, added: “Investing in prevention helps individuals, families, and communities build stronger foundations for the future. The earlier we start, the better the outcomes for everyone involved.”
More information about prevention programs and behavioral health services can be found at bbh.wv.gov/page/children-youth-and-family-services.
