Prevention Efforts Strengthen Across Western Oklahoma
The Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Division at the Southwestern Oklahoma Development Authority (SWODA) continues to advance vital prevention efforts throughout 13 counties in Western Oklahoma: Beckham, Blaine, Caddo, Canadian, Grady, Grant, Harmon, Jackson, Kingfisher, Kiowa, Texas, Washita, and Woodward.
Across these communities, our prevention specialists are working to educate the public about the dangers of misusing substances including marijuana, opioids, stimulants, and alcohol. We place a strong emphasis on harm reduction strategies, such as preventing children’s access to adult medications and addressing underage alcohol use.
Current Initiatives: Media Advocacy: Raising public awareness through newspapers, billboards, Facebook, radio, movie theaters, TV, and banners Community Engagement: Participating in county fairs, health fairs, baby showers, and back-to-school events where we also distribute Narcan, medication lock bags, and disposal kits Policy Development: Partnering with cities, businesses, and organizations to implement evidence-based policies, such as requiring wristbands for adults consuming alcohol at public events, to help reduce youth access To learn more about prevention services available in your county, visit: https://www.swoda.org/substance- use-prevention-treatment- and- recovery/ prevention/ odmhsas Together, we’re building stronger, healthier communities, one conversation, one resource, and one policy at a time.
This program is funded by the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, SWODA, and Local Coalitions.
