Health Resources in Action

09/11/2026

Behind every effective public health campaign is a communicator translating evidence into action.

That's why HRiA was proud to help bring the PHCC Academy to life and continue supporting its growth. Designed to strengthen the capacity of public health communicators, the Academy provides training, peer learning opportunities, and professional development resources that help practitioners navigate an evolving communications landscape.

This impact story highlights how investing in public health communicators can strengthen the field, foster trusted community engagement, and advance healthier, more equitable outcomes.

Read more about the PHCC Academy's impact: https://ow.ly/v3kK50ZEVA8


Public Health Communications Collaborative

09/10/2026

September 10 is World Su***de Prevention Day.

This year's theme, "Changing the Narrative on Su***de," calls on all of us to foster open, honest conversations about su***de and suicidal behavior. By increasing understanding, reducing stigma, and creating supportive environments, we can help ensure more people feel comfortable seeking help when they need it.

Su***de affects individuals, families, workplaces, and communities around the world. Every conversation that promotes compassion, connection, and support can make a difference.

Learn more about World Su***de Prevention Day and explore resources from the International Association for Su***de Prevention: World Su***de Prevention Day: https://www.iasp.info/wspd/

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Here are some examples of how you can change the narrative on su***de over World Su***de Prevention Day 2025.

09/01/2026

September is Recovery Month, a time to recognize that recovery from substance use disorders is possible and to celebrate the individuals, families, and communities who support that journey.

This year's message is simple but powerful: Recovery is REAL® (Restoring Every Aspect of Life). With access to treatment, recovery supports, and strong community connections, people can achieve healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Recovery Month is also an opportunity to reduce stigma, share resources, and promote policies and practices that help people access the care and support they need.

Explore SAMHSA's Recovery Month resources and join us in helping spread the message that recovery is real.

🔗https://www.samhsa.gov/about/digital-toolkits/recovery-month

With the right treatment, support, and resources, recovery is possible for everyone. Use this Toolkit to learn more about what SAMHSA is doing to support people in recovery and how to share this information with your audiences.

08/31/2026

What if more people knew how to respond to an overdose?

Today, on International Overdose Awareness Day, we remember those lost to overdose, honor the loved ones and communities affected, and recommit to preventing future loss.

Overdose continues to impact families and communities across Massachusetts and the nation. Yet many overdose deaths are preventable when people have the knowledge, tools, and confidence to act.

That's why the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and HRiA partnered to develop You Can, a statewide initiative designed to help people learn simple, lifesaving overdose prevention and response skills.

The campaign is built on a simple belief: anyone can save a life.

Whether it's learning to recognize the signs of an overdose, carrying naloxone, using fentanyl test strips, or performing rescue breathing, small actions can have a profound impact.

Today, we remember those we've lost. We support those who continue to grieve. And we commit to expanding access to the skills and resources that help keep people alive.

Take action. Learn the signs. Share the resources. Save a life.

👉 Visit You Can: youcan.info

Save a life and keep the brain alive by using rescue breathing in response to an overdose. Use naloxone, commonly known as NARCAN ® Nasal Spray, to reverse the overdose. Learn the signs, know how to respond, carry naloxone with you, and use rescue breathing in response to an overdose, even if you d...

08/28/2026

Healthy people thriving in equitable and just communities.

That's our vision.

What's your vision for the future of public health?

08/25/2026

August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day.

Overdose impacts individuals, families, and communities across the globe. By raising awareness, sharing evidence-based information, and supporting overdose prevention efforts, we can help save lives and reduce stigma.

As you plan for August 31, explore the resources, campaign materials, and participation ideas available through the IOAD website.

Together, we can honor lives lost, support those affected by overdose, and strengthen our commitment to prevention.

Visit the IOAD website and start planning your participation today: https://www.overdoseday.com/

International Overdose Awareness Day spreads the message about the tragedy of drug overdose death and that drug overdose is preventable.

06/02/2026

At HRiA, we believe that healthier communities start with equitable access, data-driven solutions, and meaningful partnerships.

From advancing health equity to supporting community-led initiatives, our work is grounded in one core mission: creating conditions where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Want to see how we’re putting that into action?

Explore our work across research, capacity building, grantmaking, and more 👇
🔗 https://hria.org/our-work/

Whether you’re a partner, funder, or community leader, we invite you to learn more about how we can work together to drive lasting impact.

Discover how HRiA and partners are creating real sustainable impact through policy, system, and environmental change approaches.

03/31/2026

Problem Gambling Awareness Month 2026 may be coming to an end, but support for problem gambling remains available 24/7 through the Massachusetts Problem Gambling Helpline.

Operated by HRiA, the MA Problem Gambling Helpline connects people to trusted services and support across Massachusetts and helps them find the right resources for their needs. Services are free, confidential, and available in over 150 languages, making it easier for residents of all backgrounds to get the support they deserve.

The newly refreshed website helps visitors explore options, take the quick 5‑question gambling screener, and reach trained Specialists any time.

Residents can connect in the way that works best for them:
📞 Call 800‑327‑5050
💬 Text “GAMB” to 800‑327‑5050
💻 Chat online

Explore the updated site:
🔗 https://maproblemgamblinghelpline.org/

Find help for yourself Problem gambling can be treated – and there’s help available. You deserve support, and the Helpline is here so you don’t have to do it alone. Find help for someone else If your loved one is struggling with problem gambling, the Helpline is here for you too. We’ll help ...

02/20/2026

Did you know?

HRiA produces and directs the creative for our substance use helplines.

Take a look behind the scenes of our new Vermont Helplink campaign!

Each campaign is a collaborative effort that centers real voices and real stories. Our team:

- Crafts the overall narrative and approach,
- Connects with individuals who generously share their experiences,
- Finds filming locations that reflect the heart of the community,
- Conducts interviews that honor each person’s journey,
- Edits footage to amplify authenticity and dignity,
- And so much more.

We bring together health communications and harm reduction expertise to produce materials that are respectful, hopeful, and human. By embedding joy and trust into every frame, we aim to reflect the safe, affirming experience people can expect when they connect with our Helpline screening specialists.

Want to see an example of what this work looks like in action?

Here’s one of the newly released VT Helplink videos, an illustration of the kind of thoughtful, community‑centered storytelling our production campaigns deliver:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HZBzy7FGRJA

01/19/2026

"We must walk on in the days ahead with an audacious faith in the future."
- Martin Luther King, Jr.