Columbia County

Emergency Messages as of 1:45 PM, Wed. Apr 1

No information currently posted.

logo

Subscribe to receive FlashAlert messages from Columbia County.

Manage my existing Subscription

News Release

Regional Partners Encourage Safer Choices And Open Conversations For Alcohol Awareness Month - 04/01/26

ST. HELENS, Ore., Apr. 1, 2026 — In recognition of Alcohol Awareness Month, Alcohol and Drug Prevention and Education Programs (ADPEP) in Columbia, Clatsop, and Tillamook counties are encouraging community members to reflect on their relationship with alcohol and understand its impact on personal health, families, and the broader community.

 

Alcohol is the most commonly used substance in Oregon and the United States. While many people drink socially, excessive or underage drinking increases the risk of injury, chronic disease, mental health challenges, and substance use disorder. Alcohol use is also linked to higher rates of motor vehicle crashes, violence, and academic or workplace problems.

 

“Alcohol Awareness Month is an opportunity to pause and have honest, non-judgmental conversations about alcohol,” said Haley Medina, Health Promotion Specialist. “We want people to have the information they need to make informed choices and to know that support is available if they or someone they care about needs help.”

 

Throughout April, Columbia, Clatsop, and Tillamook counties will share resources focused on:

  • Understanding lower-risk drinking guidelines
  • Preventing underage drinking
  • Reducing alcohol-related harms
  • Supporting individuals and families affected by alcohol misuse

 

Parents and caregivers can help reduce youth alcohol use by setting clear expectations and maintaining open communication.

 

Confidential help is available for anyone concerned about alcohol use. Call or text the 988 Lifeline for mental health and substance use support, or visit FindTreatment.gov to locate local treatment resources.

 

For more information about Alcohol Awareness Month activities and resources, visit rethinkthedrink.com or contact Columbia County Public Health at columbiacountyor.gov/publichealth.

 

###

Regional Partners Encourage Safer Choices And Open Conversations For Alcohol Awareness Month - 04/01/26

ST. HELENS, Ore., Apr. 1, 2026 — In recognition of Alcohol Awareness Month, Alcohol and Drug Prevention and Education Programs (ADPEP) in Columbia, Clatsop, and Tillamook counties are encouraging community members to reflect on their relationship with alcohol and understand its impact on personal health, families, and the broader community.

 

Alcohol is the most commonly used substance in Oregon and the United States. While many people drink socially, excessive or underage drinking increases the risk of injury, chronic disease, mental health challenges, and substance use disorder. Alcohol use is also linked to higher rates of motor vehicle crashes, violence, and academic or workplace problems.

 

“Alcohol Awareness Month is an opportunity to pause and have honest, non-judgmental conversations about alcohol,” said Haley Medina, Health Promotion Specialist. “We want people to have the information they need to make informed choices and to know that support is available if they or someone they care about needs help.”

 

Throughout April, Columbia, Clatsop, and Tillamook counties will share resources focused on:

  • Understanding lower-risk drinking guidelines
  • Preventing underage drinking
  • Reducing alcohol-related harms
  • Supporting individuals and families affected by alcohol misuse

 

Parents and caregivers can help reduce youth alcohol use by setting clear expectations and maintaining open communication.

 

Confidential help is available for anyone concerned about alcohol use. Call or text the 988 Lifeline for mental health and substance use support, or visit FindTreatment.gov to locate local treatment resources.

 

For more information about Alcohol Awareness Month activities and resources, visit rethinkthedrink.com or contact Columbia County Public Health at columbiacountyor.gov/publichealth.

 

###