Prioritizing Treatment During National Substance Abuse Prevention Month

As we recognize National Substance Abuse Prevention Month this October, we must emphasize the critical importance of accessible, effective treatment for those struggling with substance use disorders. The ongoing addiction crisis demands a focus on substance abuse prevention, but we also must ensure that addiction treatment is available to everyone who needs it.

The national substance abuse statistics are alarming—according to the Centers for Disease Control, there were over 100,000 overdose deaths in 2022, as well as a sharp rise in alcohol-related fatalities. While efforts aimed at prevention are important, it is equally important for those struggling with substance use disorders to have access to comprehensive, evidence-based treatment so that they can not only recover but recover long-term. At Foundations Recovery Network, we believe that long-term recovery is possible when individuals receive integrated and tailored care that addresses both their addiction issues and any co-occurring mental health disorders.

Access to treatment is key to saving lives. Yet too often, stigma and a lack of resources prevent people from seeking help. This is why it is vital that we continue to work toward dismantling stigma in our culture and communities. Together, we can work to break down barriers to treatment and ensure that options like medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and holistic therapy are both available and affordable. On a larger scale, families, communities and policymakers need to come together to make these kinds of treatment a priority. We also urge policymakers to increase funding for treatment services and expand access to substance use and co-occurring mental health treatment across the nation. Only by prioritizing treatment can we truly combat the addiction crisis and help people to recover long-term and live their lives to the fullest.

Sincerely,

Chad Koller, MBA, MHA, LPC
Vice President, Substance Use Disorders
Foundations Recovery Network

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