13-05-2025
Communities observe National Prevention Week
WEST VIRGINIA (WVNS) – West Virginia has historically been among the highest-ranking states in terms of substance use according to the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration.
Each year, National Prevention Week aims to address many of the underlying factors that can lead to substance use issues.
Prevention Week is an opportunity to raise awareness of substance misuse and mental health issues, and to collaborate on creating effective solutions and resources according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Chairperson for the Mercer County Coalition for Healthy Communities Candace Harless said that early prevention can affect everything from mental and physical health to social and financial status.
'Early prevention helps individuals live healthier lives, more stable lives and have better relationships, education and employment outcomes,' Harless told 59News.
One crucial aspect of prevention comes in the form of connection and community involvement, factors that can decrease risk for substance use and mental health issues, according to Fayette County Health Department Prevention Coordinator, Katie Johnson.
'We know that boredom or lack of success are a couple of reasons that kids experiment with drugs,' she said.
National Prevention Week will be observed from May 12 – May 17, offering a prime opportunity for folks to get involved and get educated on prevention.
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