Most people know someone who has been impacted by substance abuse. Members of the 100 Families Initiative are empowering community members to advocate and potentially save the lives of their family and friends with awareness, education, and training on substance abuse and overdose treatment.
Aaron Bunch of Ideal Option, Shamal Carter of Crowley's Ridge Development Council, CASA advocate Rodney Govens, and Shalinda Woolbright of NEA Divine Intervention were guest speakers on a panel about overdose. In a discussion facilitated by 100 Families Initiative county coordinator Whitney Fraley, these four experts informed community members of challenges related to overdose and substance abuse. The discussion was followed by life-saving NARCAN training in order to prevent deaths from overdose.
Aaron Bunch gave an overview of the chemical and biological components of opioid use and why it is so difficult for people to stop using once they start.
"Opioid use disorder is a medical diagnosis," he reminds community members and as such, it requires treatment.
Shalinda Woolbright spoke to her own personal experience with substance abuse. In addition to medical treatment, she said coping skills are essential. It is important for individuals to understand that it takes time to learn and practice those skills before they can become effective.
Rodney Govens advocates for better mental health treatment and prevention for those impacted by substance abuse.
"There is always trauma involved," he says, "some level of trauma."
If we can better treat people at risk for substance abuse issues, we can get ahead of the problem. This approach requires community agencies to collaborate and offer wrap around support.
Govens said that in order for the problem of substance abuse and overdose to be addressed in Arkansas, we have to change our thought process.
"Let's meet people where they're at and help them where they're at."
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