BLUNT'S BUDGET CUTS WILL HALT PROGRESS AGAINST DRUG ABUSE

Editor, the Tribune:

Gov. Matt Blunt's proposal to cut the Department of Mental Health's funding
by nearly $13 million is a travesty that needs attention immediately.

The foundation of drug-abuse agencies was created on the basis that
repeated drug offenders or users would show no improvement with
incarceration or institutionalization. They need agencies and
organizations that provide counseling services and teach effective
relapse-prevention skills through the Alcoholics Anonymous and
Narcotics Anonymous steps.

Since the growth of these agencies, we have seen substantial proof
that these agencies not only are strong in helping individuals
maintain clean and productive lives, but they also renew faith and
peace in addicted individuals. So why are we going backward? Why is
Blunt proposing a DMH budget cut that will affect as many as 70
percent of men and a large proportion of women who are desperately
seeking treatment?

I see firsthand the dramatic and beneficial changes that occur when an
individual successfully completes the program. I have worked at a
substance abuse treatment program for women and children for the past
four years, and I see the pain and suffering that accompany addiction.
These individuals have an internal motive to change, and as a society,
we need these agencies to help them grow spiritually, mentally and
emotionally while learning how to live a life of sobriety. If Blunt's
proposal passes, there will be a tremendous amount of people who will
not be able to obtain these services and ultimately either face
incarceration or death.

Natalie Ritter