News from HCA's Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery

Don't miss the November 25 listening session for behavioral health service providers

November 25 listening session for behavioral health service providers. These calls are a great way to discuss issues with the experts. We hope that you find these calls useful and remember to take care of yourself as well as those you serve.

Starts with One campaign introduces brand refresh, new pain management resources

The Starts with One opioid misuse prevention campaign has undergone a refresh, featuring an updated logo, redesigned website, and newly developed materials. In addition to visual updates, the campaign is placing new emphasis on educating patients with short-term injuries, surgery, or other acute pain about effective pain management.

Congratulations to the 2025 Prevention Awards of Excellence recipients

On October 29, 2025, the Washington prevention community met for the monthly Provider Meeting where 2025 recipients and honorable mention nominees were honored during a virtual celebration of excellence.


New post-overdose toolkit for friends and family

The Health Care Authority (HCA) is sharing a new resource intended to support individuals whose loved ones have survived an overdose. The purpose of this guide is to "help the helpers." It includes supportive and educational materials for family, caregivers, or other loved ones in the aftermath of someone close to them experiencing and surviving an overdose.

For Our Lives + Friends for Life Toolkit Webinar

HCA and DH, a social impact agency, are hosting a webinar on Thursday, November 20 at 1 p.m., highlighting HCA’s two opioid overdose awareness campaigns.

Annual Synar Report Available For Review

The most recent Annual Synar Report (ASR) is currently available for public review.

Athena Prevention Newsletter now accessible on The Athena Forum

We're pleased to share that the monthly Athena Prevention Newsletters are now archived and accessible on the Athena Forum website.

They newsletters are located on the Athena Prevention Newsletter page. You can navigate to this page by selecting the Headlines menu items, then selecting Athena Prevention Newsletter. 

HCA hiring State Opioid Response (SOR) Prevention System Manager

Are you passionate about making a difference for families and children in the state of Washington? The Prevention System Manager oversees the implementation of opioid prevention projects, manages contracts, and collaborates with communities, healthcare providers, and state agencies to drive meaningful change. This role combines project management, policy development, and stakeholder engagement in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. Telework flexibility and a strong benefits package make this a rewarding and balanced career for experienced prevention professionals.

WA survey shows shifting cannabis trends: higher use, higher perceived risks

11 years after legalization, cannabis use among WA young adults rises, but perceived risks also increase.

New! Focus On goals planner

The Focus On underage drinking prevention campaign produced a new interactive planner that will support youth in identifying, reaching, and reflecting on their goals—while reminding them to steer clear of alcohol so they can prioritize what matters most.