Celebrating Victories and Nurturing Resilience: A Year-End Reflection on Substance Misuse Prevention

As we approach the end of the year, it’s crucial to reflect on the victories, both big and small, in our collective efforts to prevent substance misuse among West Virginia’s youth. At GameChanger, our commitment to fostering positive change remains unwavering, and we believe that celebrating these successes is an essential part of our journey. Reflecting on the Wins: Throughout the year, GameChanger has witnessed and contributed to ... Continue Reading »

Celebrating a Substance-Free Holiday Season for Teens: Five Tips for Families

As the holiday season approaches, we find ourselves immersed in the joy of festivities, family gatherings, and the spirit of giving. However, amidst the celebrations, it’s crucial to prioritize the well-being of our teens and create an environment that fosters their healthy growth and development. GameChanger, an organization committed to empowering families and communities, offers five game-changing tips on how to keep the holidays substance-free for your family. 1. Open ... Continue Reading »

WHEELING PARK HIGH PEER LEADERS CHANGING THE GAME ON SUBSTANCE MISUSE

We are the GameChangers from Wheeling Park High School! We are students leading the fight to change the game on substance misuse in our area high schools and elementary schools. Sadly, we have seen the devastating impact of dangerous substances in our community. Just this summer, alcohol played a role in a death of one our fellow students. This and countless other substance misuse tragedies should never be happening here ... Continue Reading »

Building a Bright Future: 5 Tips for Fostering a Healthy Lifestyle in Kids to Prevent Substance Abuse

Creating a healthy lifestyle for kids is essential for reducing the risk of substance abuse disorders down the line. Here are five tips to help you promote a healthy lifestyle for children: 1. Build Resilience and Coping Skills: The Child Mind Institute emphasizes the importance of teaching children coping skills to deal with stress and peer pressure. Building resilience equips them to face challenges without turning to substance abuse as a ... Continue Reading »

The Silent Sufferers: How Parental Substance Abuse Impacts Kids

Parental substance abuse is an alarming societal issue with far-reaching consequences, and its impact on children is both profound and enduring. Children growing up in homes where one or both parents struggle with substance abuse face a plethora of physical, emotional, and developmental challenges. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 25% of American children have been exposed to parental substance abuse at some point in ... Continue Reading »

Understanding the Ten Risk Factors for Addiction

Addiction is a complex and multifaceted issue that can impact individuals from all walks of life. It’s not solely a matter of weak willpower; rather, addiction arises from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. By understanding the risk factors associated with addiction, we can take proactive steps to prevent its development and provide better support to those who may be at risk. Look at the ten key ... Continue Reading »

Healthy Body, Healthy Mind

My name is Olivia Tennant and I am an upcoming senior at Clay-Battelle Middle/ High School. Being a GameChanger Peer Leader has been such an amazing experience. Each member on our team pledged to stay away from all substances and to support our school to do the same. The idea behind our Peer Leadership Team is to be healthy role models and show students and the community that a life ... Continue Reading »

Addiction by Age Group: A Breakdown

Addiction can happen at any stage of life. Regardless of age, sex, or background, substance abuse disorders do not discriminate. There are, however, certain age groups at higher risk of developing addiction. Let’s break down addiction by age group and the risks factors involved for each.

Youths

Between 2016 and 2022, drug use among 8th graders climbed more than 60 percent (1). And while the numbers aren’t as ... Continue Reading »

The Link Between Trauma and Addiction

Genetics, environment, and upbringing can all play a role in a person’s chances of developing addiction. But for nearly two-thirds of those with current substance abuse disorders, there’s one common link—trauma (1). What exactly is trauma, and why is it so closely linked with future substance abuse disorders? Let’s take a closer look.

What is Trauma?

Trauma is much more than a difficult ... Continue Reading »

3 Common Mental Health Myths Surrounding Addiction

Myths about mental health and addiction are everywhere. Often, they prevent young people from getting the help when they need it most. Let’s learn about how poor mental health and addiction go hand in hand, and three common myths surrounding them.

Myth #1: Mental health issues are rare.

FACT: In 2019, the World Health Organization reported 1 in every 8 people—around 970 million worldwide—were living with a mental ... Continue Reading »

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