Pictured above: Sallisaw's proclamation of the city’s annual observance of Red Ribbon Week.
We recently celebrated Red Ribbon Week, a well-organized and lasting campaign initiated by the DEA in 1985 following the loss of an agent at the hands of drug traffickers. It’s a great program and has helped elevate discussion about substance use issues nationwide. The event prompts us to reflect on the tremendous change that has occurred regarding messaging and our approach to substance use issues since that time nearly three decades ago.
How we approached things in 1985 looks very different than how we approach things now. For one, we know a great deal more about substance use disorders and the disease of addiction. We talk about prevention and incredible treatment options, share testimonials and have a much better understanding of brain health and the consequences of not addressing treatment need. And, when we look at system change…it’s night and day. We have come a long way.
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However, there is also something that hasn’t changed and that’s the fact that thousands in need of services never access help to find wellness. This is something that we all can do something about.
There are barriers to care that will only be overcome by all of us working to raise awareness and normalize conversations about substance use. This is a topic for discussion every day in our homes, places of worship, schools, businesses and throughout the community. Let’s amplify the voice of recovery and continue our efforts to create positive change.
Learn how to start the conversation about substance use with the teens in your life by visiting OwnYourPowerOK.com.