Author: GameChanger

What To Do if Your Friend Is Using Drugs
In today’s world, it’s not a matter of “if” one of your friends, acquaintances, or loved ones will use drugs—it’s a matter of “when”. That’s why it’s important to understand the signs of addiction and how to help. In addition to learning about the dangers of opioids and other substances for yourself, you can be a resource for your friend as they find their ... Continue Reading »

Choices Can Change the Game

It’s all about choices.

Because choices can Change the Game. West Virginia high school kids have come a long way! Looking at the numbers, they’re already Changing the Game – and they have been for years. Youth have been Changing the Game with healthy decisions. As new challenges emerge – like the Opioid Epidemic – they need real facts and support to continue making good choices. GameChanger ... Continue Reading »

Opioid dependence can happen in just FIVE DAYS.

It can happen to anybody.

While many people take Prescription Opioids as directed under a doctor’s care, there are risks that we should know.

Risks Include:

Taking Opioids puts you at risk for dependence and addictionOpioids affect the brain’s “reward circuit” and flood the brain with the chemical messenger dopamine.Dopamine surges encourage you to repeat the unhealthy behavior of ... Continue Reading »

Gov. Justice announces addition of Greenbrier County schools to GameChanger
LEWISBURG, WV – Gov. Jim Justice joined local and state education leaders, along with several other officials, for an event today announcing Greenbrier East High School and Greenbrier West High School as the latest additions to the new, student-powered WV GameChanger Opioid and Substance Misuse Prevention Program. Read the full press release… 51858167538 85c214afc6 o scaled 51858078456 4edaff53b9 o scaled 518 Continue Reading »

Asking For Help When Struggling With Addiction
Many people struggle with addiction. What happens after they admit to themselves that they have a problem? After admitting that there is a problem with their use of drugs or alcohol, the next step is asking for help from others. Those that struggle with addiction can be wary of asking for help. Asking for help means that they must admit to something they would probably prefer not to mention. Asking ... Continue Reading »

Signs of Addiction
Addiction is a highly complex condition that can affect virtually anyone. In the United States alone, approximately 21 million people suffer from addiction every year. Unfortunately, of those 21 million people, only 10 percent receive help and treatment. Recognizing the signs of addiction is the first step to getting help for yourself or guiding someone you care about to help. For this reason, it is critical to have an understanding of the signs ... Continue Reading »

The Effects Of Substance Use On Appearance
In 2019, West Virginia had the highest drug overdose-related death rate in the US, coming in at a staggering 52.8% per 100,000 residents. Outside of Delaware (48%), the closest ranking states to West Virginia were Kentucky, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, proving that the drug epidemic is happening right in our backyard.  Drug usage results in a number of unhealthy consequences, from dissension within the family to self-disfigurement. Read on to discover how substance abuse can ... Continue Reading »

Gov. Justice and GameChanger Announce Launch Of Innovative Prevention Education Program
CLARKSBURG, WV — Gov. Jim Justice today joined several officials to announce the launch of a new student-powered Opioid and Substance Misuse Prevention Program. The program is the first of its kind and results from a service agreement between GameChanger and the world-renowned Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. GameChanger is a student-powered, substance misuse prevention movement connecting West Virginia students and the educators who care about them through a coordinated, comprehensive preven Continue Reading »

The Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment of Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
Chances are you or someone you know has been affected by substance abuse or addiction. In 2018, West Virginia ‘led’ all other states in opioid-related deaths occurring per 100,000 residents with a total of 42.4%, nearly 10% higher than the next leading state.  This doesn’t have to be your fate. We know this topic is a personally sensitive issue to most people. Below we discuss some of the major causes of substance use ... Continue Reading »
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