Responding to Opioid Addiction in our Community

May 26, 2017

Substance Abuse and Addiction Discussed at Community Forum Wednesday, May 31, 5:30-8:30pm, Homer High School Commons

Alaska Governor Bill Walker has declared a public health crisis in order to combat the state’s opioid epidemic. Substance misuse and addiction are negatively affecting individuals, families and businesses on the Southern Kenai Peninsula, and prescription and non-prescription drugs are a growing concern in the community. Substance abuse was the factor ranked number one as most negatively affecting the community in all three of the last community health needs assessments for the southern peninsula.

Join us for a community conversation on Wednesday, May 31 to learn more and discuss the issue of substance misuse, abuse and addiction. Andy Jones, DHSS Deputy Incident Commander of Alaska’s Opioid Response Team, will present on the history of opioids and the state’s response to the crisis.  Dr. Sarah Spencer, Addiction Medicine Specialist, will explain the science of addiction as a chronic disease.  Stephanie Stillwell, RN, BSN, Public Health Nurse II, Section of Public Health Nursing, will present on the stages of recovery, the resources available locally and ways to get involved.  Stories of addiction will be shared through the voice of a recovering addict and family members affected by the disease. A community conversation will immediately follow the presentations, including ample time for questions, suggestions and conversation.

Service providers related to addiction response, recovery or prevention are encouraged to attend to contribute to the discussion and share their materials or information. Contact Bonita Banks, RN, Health and Wellness Educator at 235-0285 for more details.