Crater Health District Warns of Increased Winter Substance Use Disorder Risk

VA Dept of Health Newsroom

Published February 20th, 2026

Detected February 24th, 2026

Summary

The Crater Health District in Virginia has issued a notice warning of increased risks for substance use disorder during the winter months. The district is providing tips and resources to help individuals and the community combat SUD and support recovery.

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What changed

The Crater Health District (CHD) has issued a public notice highlighting the increased risks associated with substance use disorder (SUD) during the winter season. The notice emphasizes that factors such as shorter daylight hours, colder temperatures, and social pressures can exacerbate SUD and lead to relapses. CHD aims to raise awareness and reduce stigma by providing information on available resources and prevention strategies.

While this notice does not impose new regulatory requirements, it serves as a public health advisory. Individuals and healthcare providers in the Crater Health District are encouraged to be aware of these seasonal risks. The district offers resources such as overdose prevention training with free naloxone, opioid prevention education, fentanyl and xylazine test strips, community linkages to care, and connections to professional help through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. No specific compliance deadline or penalties are mentioned, as this is an informational advisory.

What to do next

Review seasonal risk factors for substance use disorder within the community.
Ensure awareness of and access to local SUD resources and prevention programs.
Promote public health messaging regarding SUD risks and available support.

Source document (simplified)

February 20, 2026

Media Contact: RaShel Charles, District PIO, RaShel.Charles@vdh.virignia.gov

Tara Rose. Alternate PIO Tara.Rose@vdh.virginia.gov

Crater Health District Gives Tips to Combat Substance Use Disorder This Winter

PETERSBURG, Va. – Winter is often a time of reflection and resolution, but for some, it’s a time when substance use increases. Crater Health District (CHD) reminds the community that substance use disorder (SUD) is a critical issue highlighted during this time of year, particularly as individuals and communities set intentions for improvement and recovery.

“Substance Use Disorder affects every part of our community, and no one should face it alone.” said Crater District Health Director, Dr. Alton Hart, Jr. “This month, we renew our commitment to reducing stigma, expanding access to care, and supporting every person on their path to recovery.”

Winter months often bring unique challenges that can increase the risk of drug use. Shorter daylight hours, colder temperatures, and reduced opportunities for outdoor activities can lead to feelings of isolation and seasonal depression. Social gatherings and celebrations where substances may be present can create an environment where individuals are more vulnerable to relapses or misuse. Understanding these risks is essential for developing strategies to maintain sobriety and support overall well-being during this season.

“Substance use disorder is not a moral failing, it is a treatable, chronic brain disorder,” said Elle Merkle, Overdose Prevention Coordinator. “Our CHD Overdose Prevention Team works to expand health education, increase access to naloxone, and connect people with evidence-based treatment and resources to strengthen recovery and help build more resilient communities.”

The CHD Overdose Prevention Team provides:

REVIVE! Overdose prevention training with free naloxone.
Opioid prevention education and distributes fentanyl and xylazine test strips.
Community linkages to care.
Peer Recovery Specialist Alliance Network.
Resource connections and collaborative partnerships.
Support for long-term recovery.
Crater Health District share tips to stay resilient:
Stay connected with friends, family, and recovery groups.
Anticipate high-risk situations and rehearse responses.
Set boundaries for social events.
Remain aware of personal triggers that are brought on by large social gatherings, especially when alcohol is served.
Substance use struggles often happen together with mood disorders like depression or anxiety increasing vulnerability during stressful times in winter.
Maximize daylight exposure, ensure proper sleep, exercise regularly, and eat balanced meals.
Replace substance-related habits with comforting alternatives like tea, journaling, or meditation. Use journaling to identify patterns and act early on warning signs.
Join support groups or volunteer to boost mood and structure.
Connect with professional help if needed.
If you have drug or alcohol concerns, mental health struggles, emotional distress, or just need someone to talk to, call, text, or chat the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. A trained crisis worker can provide immediate help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If you have questions about SUD or looking for direct linkage to recovery resources and treatment call 804-863-1652 or visit Crater Health District. If you need more information about our CHD Overdose Prevention Team, contact Elle Merkle at Elle.Merkle@vdh.virginia.gov 804-481-2042 or JaDa Woodley at Jada.Woodley@vdh.virginia.gov 804-704-7554.