Prevention ProgramsThe Prevention unit of MCBHC works to provide comprehensive prevention strategies that are structured to reduce individual and environmental risk factors and to increase resiliency factors in individuals. The strategies include information dissemination, promotion of community-based, prevention focused partnerships, community standards and policies that support health practices, and positive alternative activities that exclude the use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.
Prevention Specialists serve as substance abuse and mental health liaisons to the community at large and Mercer County Student Assistance Teams at junior and senior high schools. Prevention programs include but are not limited to:
OAP information: "On Applebee Pond" life Skills CurriculumAdolescent Choices and Expectations ProgramParent-to-Parent Facilitator TrainingStudent Leadership ConferencesTobacco InitiativeCommunity Coalitions Support and Collaboration Greenville's Communities That Car CoalitionSharpsville's enforcement-based coalition,Sharpsville Targets Adolescent Alcohol Resistance (STAAR)Creating Lasting Family ConnectionPrimary Prevention under the public health approach is different from intervention and treatment in that primary prevention is aimed at general population groups with various levels of risk for alcohol, tobacco and other drug behavior. Primary prevention services provide individuals with information and resources to raise their awareness of both risky and healthy behaviors. Prevention services help shape environments which promote health and protection from harm.
The Primary Prevention Unit enhanced the delivery of community-based prevention through the expansion of coalition building and environmental strategies. Collaborative efforts exist within the local communities through: Greenville's Communities That Care Coalition, Sharpsville's enforcement-based coalition, Sharpsville's Targets Adolescent Alcohol Resistance (STAAR), and the Endorse Resistance of All Substance Abuse Everywhere (ERASE) Anti-Drug Coalition located in Farrell, PA, serving the Shenango Valley. The ERASE Coalition - in conjunction with the Sharon/Farrell Weed and Seed Program implemented evidence-based programming, targeting youth ages 12-17. The model program, Creating Lasting Family Connections, is designed to delay the onset of substance abuse and decrease the use of substances among participating youth while increasing parental knowledge and involvement in setting rules about substance use.