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Adopt and present a resolution recognizing September 2019 as National Recovery Month in Solano County (Supervisor Brown)
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Published Notice Required? Yes ___ No _X_
Public Hearing Required? Yes ___ No _X_
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
The Department of Health and Social Services (H&SS) recommends the Board adopt and present a resolution recognizing September 2019 as National Recovery Month in Solano County.
SUMMARY:
September 2019 marks the 30th anniversary of National Recover Month, sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The observance celebrates the millions of Americans who are building a life in recovery from mental illness and substance use disorders.
Substance use disorders affect communities across the United States, but with commitment and support people can achieve healthy lifestyles and lead rewarding lives in recovery. Many people experience co-occurring mental illnesses and/or complex medical needs that require individualized approaches for recovery. The National Recovery Month theme this year is “Join the Voices for Recovery: Together We Are Stronger.” The intent of the theme is to recognize and support the many paths to recovery through shared resources and networks. National Recovery Month spreads the message that behavioral health is essential to health and one’s overall wellness, and that prevention works, treatment is effective, and people recover.
There will be two events in Solano County to celebrate National Recovery Month:
1. The 18th Annual Recovery Rally, located on the Annex Lawn in Fairfield on September 14, 2019 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. will include a free BBQ, speakers and testimonials.
2. The 3rd Annual Solano County Behavioral Health Celebrate Recovery educational event for staff, contracted providers, and the community will feature speakers, including a nationally recognized expert in dual diagnosis (co-occurring disorders) and personal recovery stories. The date and flyer are forthcoming.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The costs associated with preparing this agenda item and resolution are included in the Department’s FY2019/20 Adopted Budget.
DISCUSSION:
The impact of mental and substance use disorders is apparent in our local community -- substance use and mental illnesses are major public health concerns affecting people of every age, race, socioeconomic, and ethnic background. National data trends tell us that illicit drug use is increasing, with estimates that 6% of US population has a substance use disorder and very few people receive treatment.
Two areas of concern include early drug/alcohol experimentation by youth and issues that affect homelessness:
• According to our Solano County Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Prevention Plan, alcohol and cannabis are two of the primary drugs of choice for Solano County youth, both of which are easy to obtain. For many people, drug use is a form of self-medication of mental health symptoms.
• According to the 2019 Point in Time Survey on homelessness, of the 1,151 homeless individuals that were counted, 11% reported substance use issues led to homelessness, 25% said that alcohol/drug counseling could have prevented homelessness, and 22% reported alcohol & drug abuse as a current health condition. Substance use and the amount of substance use is largely under-reported by those affected.
This year’s theme “Join the Voices for Recovery: Together We Are Stronger” highlights how the value of integrated care, a strong community, a sense of purpose and appropriate leadership contribute to effective treatments that sustain recovery from substance abuse and mental health disorders. Preventing and overcoming mental and substance use disorders is essential to achieving healthy lifestyles, both physically and emotionally. Encouraging relatives and friends of people with mental and substance use disorders to implement preventive measures, recognize the signs of a problem, and guide those in need toward appropriate treatment and recovery support services is critical.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board could choose not to adopt this resolution. This is not recommended because this is an opportunity to positively impact our county through the increased awareness of a public health concern and treatment options. Through Recovery Month, people become more aware and able to recognize the signs of mental and substance use disorders, which can lead more people into needed treatment. Managing the effects of these conditions can help people achieve healthy lifestyles, both physically and emotionally.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
Health and Social Services Behavioral Health Division is working with community partners, advisory boards, and the Solano Prevention and Recovery Alliance to promote National Recovery Month.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION