Editor, Times-Union:
I am writing to express my concerns regarding the recently proposed FEND off Fentanyl Act. While I appreciate the efforts to address the devastating impact of fentanyl and opioid addiction, I believe that the Act fails to address a crucial aspect of this epidemic, mental health support for those struggling with addiction.
As we continue to witness the alarming rise in opioid-related deaths, it has become increasingly evident that addiction is not solely a physical dependency but also deeply intertwined with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, etc. Ignoring the mental health component of addiction treatment is not only shortsighted but also detrimental to the overall well-being and recovery of individuals affected by this crisis.
The FEND off Fentanyl Act primarily focuses on law enforcement measures to combat the distribution and trafficking of fentanyl, which undoubtedly plays a significant role in tackling the supply side of the epidemic. However, it fails to adequately address the demand side, where individuals struggling with addiction are in desperate need of comprehensive support, including access to mental health services. As someone who has had four years of experience in the mental health field, we are not sufficiently equipped as a state or even region to serve those who come through the doors seeking our support and guidance. The resources are severely lacking as we continue to bury our family and friends who have suffered this disease of despair.
Expanding access to Harm Reduction Clinics is essential to meeting this need. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has stated that harm reduction programs have demonstrated their effectiveness in reducing the harms associated with drug use, improving public health outcomes, and increasing access to care and support for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. However, their success depends on factors such as community engagement, adequate funding and resources, supportive policies, and collaboration between various stakeholders, such as government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations.
According to the Indiana Department of Health in 2021 Indiana has consistently placed in the top half of U.S. states and territories for the highest drug overdose death rate since 2013. Indiana has a consistently higher overdose death rate than the U.S. average. Without sufficient funding and resources allocated towards mental health treatment and support programs, we risk leaving behind those who are most vulnerable and in urgent need of help. In 2023, 1,534 Indiana residents died of a drug related overdose, that is roughly 4 Hoosiers a day in just one year. Many individuals grappling with opioid addiction are also battling underlying mental health conditions that often go untreated, exacerbating their struggles and hindering their path to recovery.
To truly make a meaningful impact in combating the opioid crisis, any legislative efforts must prioritize a holistic approach that includes robust funding for mental health services, counseling, therapy, and support groups. By addressing the root causes of addiction and providing comprehensive care, we can offer hope and a chance at recovery to those affected by this devastating epidemic.
I urge lawmakers to reconsider the FEND off Fentanyl Act and incorporate provisions that prioritize mental health funding and support for individuals struggling with opioid addiction. It is imperative that we approach this crisis with compassion, empathy, and a commitment to addressing the complex needs of those affected.
Madison Coy
IUSB Graduate Student
Warsaw, via email