West Branch Drug and Alcohol Abuse Commission

06/11/2026

Summer is a busy time, wouldn't want you to forget to register early!
https://runsignup.com/Race/PA/SouthWilliamsport/RunningOverAddictionHalfMarathon5k

06/10/2026

School’s Out: Summer Prevention Starts Now

Summer brings more free time and fewer daily routines, which can create both opportunities and challenges for young people.

Staying connected and engaged helps reduce risk factors. Simple, consistent communication can build trust and give youth the confidence to make healthy choices.

Positive activities, supportive relationships, and open conversations all play an important role in prevention.

Prevention doesn’t start when there’s a problem. It starts with everyday moments.

06/08/2026

Trauma affects people in different ways, and for some, it can have a lasting impact on both mental and physical health.

In some cases, individuals may turn to substances as a way to cope with difficult or overwhelming experiences. PTSD and substance use disorders often occur together, making understanding this connection critical.

When we recognize how trauma influences behavior, we can reduce stigma and create space for compassion, support, and meaningful intervention.

With the right treatment and support systems in place, recovery is possible.

06/05/2026

Prevention starts long before a problem develops.

Through early education and community-based programming, we can help young people build the confidence and decision-making skills they need to navigate real-life challenges like peer pressure and stress.

Prevention is not one conversation or one program. It’s a collective effort involving schools, families, and community partners, all working together to build strong protective factors around our youth.

When we invest in prevention, we’re investing in healthier futures for the next generation.

Watch Pascha Ferry discuss the importance of prevention:
https://youtu.be/Lm1zELetH8k?si=wuWfRa3w04YTYYT-

In this video, Pascha Ferry, Prevention Specialist at West Branch Drug & Alcohol, shares the importance of prevention in addressing substance use before it b...

06/04/2026

Emily is celebrating 11 years with WBDA!
Thank you for all you do but most of all, making us laugh! 🤩🍌

06/04/2026

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06/02/2026

From the HIV/AIDS crisis to the overdose crisis, LGBTQ+ communities have always led with compassion, care, and action.

Harm reduction grew from chosen families showing up for one another—and that legacy continues today.

Carry Narcan. Use test strips. Know where to find free supplies through Pennsylvania's Overdose Prevention Program. Link in the comments. 🌈

05/30/2026

As we conclude our National Treatment Court Month video series, we’re honored to feature retired Judge Marc Lovecchio, whose years of service and leadership have helped shape Treatment Court and Veterans Treatment Court programs in our region.

In this video, Judge Lovecchio reflects not only on his experience from the bench, but also on the personal impact substance use had on his own family through his brother’s struggle with addiction.

His perspective serves as a powerful reminder that substance use disorders affect families, loved ones, and entire communities.

Judge Lovecchio speaks about the role Treatment Courts play in helping participants rebuild their lives:

"We give you structure, we give you a sponsor, we give you counseling, we give you hope. Hope for an education. Hope for a job. Hope that you can be a parent to your children. A lot of people with substance use issues... they lose hope."

At their core, Treatment Courts are about restoring hope while providing the accountability, support, treatment, and resources people need to move forward.

We are grateful to Judge Lovecchio for sharing his story, his insight, and his unwavering commitment to helping individuals and families find a path toward recovery.

Thank you to everyone who makes Treatment Courts possible and to those who shared their stories throughout this month.

Together, we continue to demonstrate that recovery is possible and that hope can change lives.

05/28/2026

“Treatment Court saved my life.”

That’s how Jolene describes the impact Treatment Court had on her recovery journey.

In this video, Jolene shares part of her story, including moments when she felt "hopeless" while struggling with addiction, the support systems that helped guide her forward, and the role Treatment Court played in helping her rebuild her life.

She also shares this message for others who may be struggling:

“Just don’t give up. Keep reaching out for help. The right person will hear you and see you.”

We’re grateful to Jolene for sharing her story and helping remind others that hope and recovery are possible.

05/26/2026

Recognizing the signs of substance use is not always straightforward.

Changes in mood, behavior, friendships, routines, or communication can sometimes be early indicators that something is wrong. But warning signs are not always obvious or extreme, and every situation looks different.

Mental health challenges and substance use can also share similar warning signs, including isolation, stress, anxiety, or noticeable changes in behavior. Paying attention early can help open the door to support and conversation.

If something feels off, trust your instincts. Concern alone is enough to start paying attention, asking questions, and creating space for honest communication.

Early awareness and intervention can make a meaningful difference and help connect individuals and families with support sooner.

West Branch Drug & Alcohol offers information and resources to help you better understand potential warning signs and what steps to take next.

Learn more:
https://wbdrugandalcohol.org/services/prevention/suspecting-substance-abuse/

Suspecting Substance Abuse Signs and Symptoms of Teen Substance Abuse There’s no easy way to figure out if your teen is using drugs or alcohol. As you’ll see, many of the signs and symptoms of teen substance abuse listed below are also, at times, typical adolescent behavior. Many are also sympto...