Substance abuse is everyone's problem

Substance misuse and abuse is not only a national problem; it is a local problem. Substance misuse is the use of alcohol or drugs in a manner, situation, or frequency that could cause harm to the user or to those around them. Substance misuse is a major public health challenge and a priority for the nation to address.

Millions of Americans are affected by substance misuse. Thousands are affected in the state of Montana and hundreds are affected in Hill County. From July 2013 through June 2014, 318 people from Hill County received state-approved chemical dependency treatment; 239 people the year before. In 2013, Hill County had 109 drug/narcotic offenses, 89 DUIs and 120 liquor law violations comparable to the year before at 80 drug/narcotic offenses, 78 DUIs, and 104 liquor law violations. (Montana DPHHS, 2016)

The accumulated costs to the individual, the family, and the community are staggering and arise as a consequence of many direct and indirect effects, including compromised physical and mental health, increased spread of infectious disease, loss of productivity, reduced quality of life, increased crime and violence, increased motor vehicle crashes, abuse and neglect of children and increased health care costs. The most devastating effect is the loss of life.

The time is now. Our community can work together to mobilize the capacities of health care organizations, social service organizations, educational systems, community-based organizations, government health agencies, religious institutions, law enforcement, local businesses, researchers, and other public, private and volunteer entities that impact public health. Everyone has a role to play in addressing substance misuse and substance use disorders and in changing the conversation around substance use, to improve the health, safety, and well-being of individuals and our community.

During the week of Jan. 23, Montana State University-Northern will be offering a variety of events in observance of National Drug Facts Week. They include an art show exhibition, a documentary exhibition, a presentation, and a panel discussion.

Sources include Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, 2016; and “Facing Addiction in America” The Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health, 2016.

Jessica Kennedy-Stiffarm, RN, BSN

Public Health Nurse

Family Planning

Hill County Public Health