Across the nation, including West Virginia, the opioid crisis continues to touch our lives in profound ways. Among the many challenges we face, fentanyl stands out as a particularly potent and dangerous substance. That's why April 29, 2025, National Fentanyl Awareness Day, holds such vital importance. This day isn't just another date on the calendar; it's a dedicated moment to remember those we've lost, to educate our communities about the dangers of fentanyl, and to empower individuals and families with the resources they need.

From Tragedy to Awareness
National Fentanyl Awareness Day emerged from the heartbreaking experiences of families who have lost loved ones to fentanyl poisoning. Driven by a desire to prevent similar tragedies, these families came together to raise public awareness about the risks associated with fentanyl, often disguised in counterfeit pills or mixed with other substances. Their advocacy has been instrumental in bringing this critical issue to the forefront of national conversation.

Why Fentanyl Demands Our Attention
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is significantly more potent than morphine. Even a tiny amount, equivalent to a few grains of salt, can be lethal. This extreme potency makes accidental overdose a significant risk, especially when individuals are unaware they are consuming fentanyl. It's crucial to understand that fentanyl can be found in illicit drugs like heroin, cocaine, and counterfeit pills that look like legitimate prescription medications.

The Indispensable Role of Behavioral Health Services
Addressing the fentanyl crisis requires a multifaceted approach, and behavioral health services are an absolutely essential component. Substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex condition that often requires professional support, and here at Integrated Health Centers of West Virginia (IHCWV), we understand the critical link between mental health and addiction.
Behavioral health services can provide individuals struggling with SUD with:

• Comprehensive Assessment: Understanding the individual's unique circumstances, including any co-occurring mental health conditions, is the first step towards effective treatment.
• Individual and Group Therapy: These therapeutic approaches help individuals develop coping mechanisms, address underlying trauma, and build resilience against relapse.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): For opioid use disorder, MAT combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, significantly improving outcomes. *IHCWV's MAT Program coming soon.
• Relapse Prevention Strategies: Learning to identify triggers and develop strategies to manage them is crucial for long-term recovery.
• Support for Families: Addiction impacts not only the individual but also their loved ones. Behavioral health services often include family therapy and support groups to help navigate these challenging situations.

Integrated Health Centers of WV: Your Partner in Hope and Healing
At IHCWV, we are committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based behavioral health services to individuals and families affected by substance use disorder. We believe that recovery is possible, and we offer a range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of our community.

On National Fentanyl Awareness Day 2025, and every day, let us remember the importance of:

• Education: Sharing accurate information about fentanyl and its dangers.
• Prevention: Empowering individuals to make informed choices and avoid risky behaviors.
• Treatment: Providing accessible and effective behavioral health services for those struggling with SUD.
• Compassion: Offering support and understanding to individuals and families impacted by this crisis.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder, please reach out. You are not alone, and help is available. Contact IHCWV today (304-643-4005) to learn more about our services and how we can support your journey towards recovery. Together, we can shine a light on hope and work towards a healthier, safer West Virginia.

​Health Begins @ IHCWV St. Marys
Integrated Health Centers of West Virginia (IHCWV) is thrilled to announce the grand opening of our St. Marys Downtown Campus on Friday, April 25, 2025 starting at 11:00 AM!

This exciting expansion marks a significant step forward in bringing comprehensive and integrated healthcare services directly to the heart of the Pleasants County community. IHCWV has long provided high-quality, patient-centered care at its St. Marys High School Clinic located within the school, near the front entrance. This new, additional location promises to make IHCWV’s services even more accessible to the residents of St. Marys and the surrounding areas by allowing us to see patients Monday through Friday.

What can you expect at the Grand Opening?
Join us for a celebratory event filled with opportunities to learn more about the services offered at the St. Marys Downtown Campus and meet the dedicated team who will be serving you. Here's a sneak peek at what's planned:

• Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony: The Pleasants Area Chamber of Commerce has graciously offered to participate in the event and will make it official with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and ‘first-dollar’ plaque presentation.
• Open House: Tour the facility, ask questions, and learn why IHCWV is the right choice for your healthcare needs. 
• Meet the Team: Meet the staff, including Primary Care Provider, Tyler Ebbeskotte, and Behavioral Health Therapist, Ashley Stevens.
• Learn About IHCWV & Available Services: Learn more about Integrated Health Centers of West Virginia’s origins, integrated healthcare approach, and new campaign: Health Begins @ IHCWV.
• Sponsorship Opportunity: Discover how to support IHCWV’s mission to provide additional treatment space at its Downtown Campus, expanding access to the affordable, compassionate, and excellent care that defines IHCWV.
• Refreshments & Light Bites: Enjoy light refreshments prepared by St. Marys Galaxy Food Center.
• Community Connection & Networking: Network with IHCWV stakeholders and other community members.

​Why is this new campus so important?
The opening of the St. Marys Downtown Campus signifies a commitment to:

• Increased Accessibility: Bringing vital healthcare services directly into the downtown area, making it easier for individuals and families to access the care they need.
• Comprehensive Care: Offering a range of integrated health services under one roof, promoting a holistic approach to wellness.
• Community Investment: Demonstrating a dedication to the health and well-being of the St. Marys community.

We believe that access to quality healthcare is essential, and this new campus will play a crucial role in fostering a healthier and stronger St. Marys.

Don't miss out on this exciting event!
Mark your calendars for Friday, April 25, at 11:00 AM, and join us and the Pleasants Area Chamber of Commerce in celebrating the grand opening of the Integrated Health Centers of West Virginia's St. Marys Downtown Campus at 111 Lafayette Street, Suite 201, St. Marys, WV 26170. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing this special occasion with the community.

We can't wait to see you there!

Stay Connected:
Follow IHCWV on Facebook and LinkedIn for updates and more information leading up to the grand opening!

​Harrisville, WV – Integrated Health Centers of West Virginia (IHCWV) is proud to announce its selection as a recipient of the West Virginia First Foundation’s (WVFF) inaugural Opportunity Grant.

The grant, totaling $81,276.41, will be used to support IHCWV Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT) Prevention Program for Justice-Impacted Youth in Region 3. The NMT is an approach that integrates core principles of neurodevelopment and traumatology that focuses on understanding a child's brain development and function. It provides a framework for assessing a child, identifying primary issues, recognizing key strengths, and applying evidence-based interventions to promote healing and growth. This project aligns with IHCWV’s mission to provide affordable, compassionate, excellent care close to home.

“We are deeply grateful to the West Virginia First Foundation for believing in our vision and supporting our work,” said Jasen R. Nichols, Director of Behavioral Health. “This grant allows us to reduce substance use and recidivism among justice-impacted youth and those in the child protection system and improve their mental health and well-being through trauma-informed care. Together, we are making strides toward a healthier and more hopeful West Virginia.”

Jonathan Board, Executive Director of the West Virginia First Foundation, praised the work of IHCWV: “Organizations like Integrated Health Centers of West Virginia are at the heart of our mission to empower communities and combat the effects of substance use disorder. Their dedication to creating positive change is inspiring, and we are honored to support their efforts through the Initial Opportunity Grant.”

The WVFF Initial Opportunity Grant underscores the Foundation’s dedication to investing in organizations and initiatives that address the opioid epidemic and its far-reaching impacts across the state. IHCWV is honored to be part of this mission and is committed to using this funding to drive meaningful change.

About West Virginia First Foundation: The West Virginia First Foundation (WVFF) is a nonprofit organization established to address the opioid crisis and its lasting impact across the state. Created under the terms of the West Virginia First Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), WVFF was designed to receive and distribute opioid settlement funds. Guided by the principles outlined in the MOU, the Foundation operates as a private 501(c)(3) entity to support prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm reduction efforts. Through strategic funding and community collaboration, WVFF is committed to creating sustainable solutions that improve the health and well-being of all West Virginians. For more information, visit wvfirst.org.

About Integrated Health Centers of West Virginia: Integrated Health Centers of West Virginia (IHCWV) was established in 1994 in Ritchie County High School, as part of a pilot program for school-based health centers. Over the next 30 years, IHCWV expanded by opening eight additional campuses across Ritchie, Doddridge, Pleasants, and Wood Counties, providing primary care, behavioral health, and dental services. As a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), IHCWV is governed by a board made up of patients and community members. The health centers also offer a Sliding Fee Discount Program for eligible individuals who are uninsured or underinsured, ensuring that everyone receives quality healthcare regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay.