Substance abuse is a national tragedy that not only destroys the addicted, but also ravages families and communities. It has risen to become a major public health issue facing our country. Yet, across our nation, not to mention in our community, many people in need of treatment do not receive or seek it.

On top of this, about half of those who struggle with substance abuse also struggle with at least one mental disorder such as depression, anxiety, mood or eating disorders. Again, in our nation, two-thirds of adults with mental illness do not get help.

Substance abuse. Mental disorder. Alone, each wreaks havoc on a person’s life. Combined (referred to as co-occurring disorders) the result can be debilitating.

While it is staggering to consider the reality of such troubling medical conditions, what is more staggering is the fact that more than 7-10 million people in this country have problems with substance abuse and co-occuring mental disorders.

Even more alarming is that if one of these conditions goes untreated, both usually get worse, and additional complications often arise. The combination of disorders can result in poor response to traditional treatments. It also increases the risk for other serious medical problems (e.g., HIV, hepatitis B and C, cardiac and pulmonary diseases), suicide, criminalization, unemployment, homelessness, and separation from families and communities.

This is why medical research has invested so much time and effort for more than two decades into learning about substance use and the nature of addiction. It is an investment that has enabled medical professionals to take action and help save lives.

One of the greatest discoveries is that addiction is a chronic illness involving brain chemistry. This awareness has allowed for the development of treatment for addiction that is as effective as treatments for other chronic medical conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

Thousands of health care providers have dedicated their lives to the recovery process and to educating the public about alcoholism, drug dependence, co-occurring disorders and treatment issues. Recovery from drug and alcohol addiction is a reality! Unfortunately, many people do not know what to do or where to turn when addiction is overwhelming one’s life.

For our communities, the answer to “what” and “where” is at hand through the professional assistance of Mental Health Services for Clark and Madison Counties. We provide a caring team dedicated to helping those who battle substance abuse and addiction. Through our services, individuals can seek help, begin the recovery process and start reclaiming their lives.