People who are recovering from opioid addiction or other substance use disorders frequently talk about their efforts as being on a journey. This metaphor serves as a valuable reminder that ensuring that you remain abstinent from opioids and other drugs is a long-term process that requires daily effort. In some cases, this can include returning to a treatment program for additional care. Don�t give up hope. Every step you take, no matter how small it may seem in the moment, is a success worth celebrating.
Information is an essential tool in the effort to end opioid addiction. An important first step is to learn about the many actions, behaviors, and other signs that may indicate a friend or relative needs treatment for opioid use disorder. To learn more, visit the Mayo Clinic website: http://ow.ly/5BTL102nsSU
As our nation observes National Recovery Month, this is an excellent moment to dispel a sadly common myth about medication-assisted treatment. MAT does not have a disruptive effect on the recovery process. Here's the truth: Decades of studies have documented the safety and effectiveness of MAT. Learn more here: http://ow.ly/nmOy102mhcc
Any opioid use can result in misuse, abuse, and addiction. Even when you're taking legally prescribed pills for a legitimate medical purpose, you need to make every effort to remain vigilant in watching for changes in your behavior. If you think you might be in danger, please know this: The professional care you need is closer than you realize, and a brighter tomorrow is within your reach.
Opioid addiction continues to impact individuals, families, and communities across the nation. As we pause to celebrate National Recovery Month, we need to begin working harder to eradicate stigma and ensure that all who are impacted by opioid use disorder are treated with compassion and respect.
World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10, and we are improving people's understanding of the high number of youths who die by suicide annually in the U.S. by encouraging participation in The Jason Foundation's #WeWontBeSilent challenge. Partnering with The Jason Foundation supports our efforts to provide tools and resources that can help you recognize when a young person might be in a place of crisis. Get more information about the #WeWontBeSilent challenge: http://ow.ly/htAc102ma5M
Today's truth bomb: If you've been living with a mental health disorder, please know that mental illness does not define who you are. Each and every one of us is worthy of compassion and support. This includes you! Even during your most difficult times, don't lose sight of your innate strengths and capabilities. We see you, we celebrate you, and we will always be here for you!
Did you get your flu shot yet? Flu season is already underway, but it’s not too late to get this year’s vaccine. The CDC recommends the flu shot for everyone age 6 months or older. This year, with the COVID-19 pandemic still impacting communities across the nation, it’s especially important to do all we can to keep ourselves healthy. Give yourself and your loved ones the gift of increased safety and greater peace of mind — get your flu shot today!
The continuing impact of the global COVID-19 crisis has forced us all to make many changes in our lives. Plenty of us have even altered how, where, and when we vote. For example, many states have reported record numbers of early voting, including citizens who voted by mail. But experts expect that millions of Americans will still show up at polling places on Election Day to cast their ballots. If you intend to vote in person on November 3, it's a good idea to plan ahead to make sure you're doing so as safely as possible. To learn more about how to safeguard your health while voting, check out this article: http://ow.ly/4f9T102r1Nf
HEALTHLINE.COM
How to Vote Safely in Person This November
Happy Halloween from all of us at Vancouver Treatment Solutions!
If a family member or close friend became addicted to opioids or other drugs, do you believe you would notice the signs and know what to say? To be a source of support for others, it's necessary to discover the facts. Here's a great place to get started: http://ow.ly/vuYU50C5AiQ
DRUGABUSE.GOV
How to Find Help | National Institute on Drug Abuse
The hardships you endured in the past led you to this juncture in your life. But finding yourself at your darkest point doesn't mean you'll never find strength again. Beginning in this moment, you get to decide what changes you're going to make from here.
October typically ends with a celebration of candy, costumes, and creativity. This year, though, the global COVID-19 crisis has complicated matters. With Halloween just days away, many families and communities are still struggling to identify ways that they can celebrate safely. It's still possible to have an enjoyable holiday. However, as we've done so often throughout 2020, we have to make a few changes. Click here to learn more about how you can have a fun but safe Halloween: http://ow.ly/MXUu102qr38
LATIMES.COM
We won't let coronavirus take Halloween. Here are 7 ways you can celebrate
You spent the holidays focused on giving, but as you close the chapter on another year, it's an excellent time to self-reflect. Take a moment and repeat positive affirmations that remind you that you deserve love and compassion just as much as everyone else.
It's no secret that 2020 was a rough year, especially for those who are grappling with addiction or a mental health disorder. Sadly, the fear of judgment kept many people from getting professional help. Together, we can end the stigma in 2021.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s sacrifices for the American civil rights movement had a lasting effect the nation will never forget. Dr. King recognized that nonviolence was a powerful tool in the fight for racial equality for people of color in the U.S. Today, we recognize Dr. King's legacy and his vision for an equitable future.
In the past few weeks, updates on the development of coronavirus vaccines have been sources of widespread relief. This is clearly fantastic news. However, we cannot lose sight of the fact that it is still flu season. Influenza continues to threaten the health of people in communities throughout the nation. To be sure you're properly protecting yourself and those you care about, we encourage you to read this vital information about the flu from the CDC: http://ow.ly/ZXU7102wNA6
On behalf of our staff, have a splendid new year! The uncertainty we faced in 2020 was often overwhelming, but today is an opportunity to start again. This is an ideal time to reflect on all that you're grateful for and develop healthy goals for the months ahead.
If you're participating in New Year's festivities tonight, please be safe and remember that you shouldn't drive if you're impaired. In acknowledgment of National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, we ask that you plan for a safe ride home, whether you choose a designated driver, take a rideshare, or call a taxi. Let's ring in the new year responsibly! http://ow.ly/G5g8102vZps