For lasting change, we must fight substance use disorders together

It’s not every day that we face natural or community-changing disasters. But we have a growing drug abuse crisis that is catastrophically tearing families apart. Mr. Rogers was known for his determined efforts to foster connections: “When I was a boy and saw scary things on the news, my mother said to me, ‘Look for helpers.’ You will always find people to help.’”

The impact of substance use disorder (SUD) on communities through rising crime, overdose deaths, homelessness, disease, and broken families are common “scary things in the news.” Families affected by addiction are the helpers needed, and these families also need helpers in policymakers, counselors, peers, and support groups.

Why connection? The connection works in both directions. Individuals with SUD use connection to bind themselves to their substance use. They acquire drugs, use them and commit crimes together with their peers. When these connections are replaced with love, responsibility, and family stability, research shows that sobriety rates increase. Connection is the antidote to the isolation of the SUD lifestyle. Families provide emotional support, stability, and responsibility, the opposite of a SUD lifestyle. However, we must recognize that the burden on families is immense and help is needed for these helpers.

What can Utah do? First, fund family therapy for SUD treatment. Second, expand peer-led family support groups like Al-Anon, which have proven effective in improving family dynamics and reducing recidivism. Third, establish family education programs. Fourth, encourage communities to create spaces for connection in recovery.

Why is it important? Families are the foundation of recovery. By strengthening this foundation through connections, support and education, we can rebuild communities. Mr. Rogers reminded us that families are helpers – but they can’t do it alone. Let us become helpers of helpers and SUD fight together for sustainable change.

Alyssa Sanderson, Holladay

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