TREATMENT WORKS ON DRUG, ALCOHOL ADDICTION

Our nation has a long history that tells us that, in times of stress and
anxiety, drug and alcohol abuse may increase - often dramatically. Nowhere
is this more true than among men, women and youth who are addicted to drugs
and/or alcohol. Trauma can trigger an increase in substance abuse and
stress-related problems.

Today millions of people are in need of treatment for both conditions, but
too few receive it.

In 2001, 76 percent of people in need of treatment for a problem with
illicit drugs did not seek or receive treatment. The problem is magnified
among those with co-occurring mental disorders. Too often, they are
undiagnosed, misdiagnosed or [as with] the homeless population, slip
through the cracks. Half the people living in our streets have co-occurring
mental and substance abuse disorders. Their symptoms are often active and
untreated, making it extremely difficult for them to meet their basic needs
for food, shelter and safety.

September marks the 14th annual observance of National Alcohol and Drug
Addiction Recovery Month. This is a fitting time to dedicate ourselves to
encouraging alcohol and drug addiction treatment for all those in need.
Make no mistake: Treatment is effective, and recovery is possible.

Whether you are a substance abuser or a person who is concerned about this
issue, we ask you to join with Shoreline Behavioral Health Services in
observance of Recovery Month. This is one problem we can do something
about. By supporting treatment for those in need, we can help men, women
and youth in our own communities to find their way to recovery - and join
the millions of others in recovery who are leading full, rich, productive
and rewarding lives.