According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, “Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 80-100 times stronger than morphine.” This medication was originally developed to treat and manage severe pain associated with cancer. Although it was created for good use, there has been a rise in drug overdose deaths linked to fentanyl.

Professionals working in the Social Work field have a major impact on the individuals and communities they serve. The National Association of Social Workers states, “According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were more than 715,000 social workers in the United States in 2020. With an expected growth in jobs of 12 percent by 2030, social work is one of the fastest-growing professions in the United States.” To say those working in this field are essential is an understatement; arguably, social workers are the backbone of our communities.

There are two types of detox, medical detox and social detox. Depending on the extent of the addiction and the amount of tolerance someone has built up, it is important to choose the method that is most suitable. Ensuring the right environment is crucial as withdrawal symptoms may be severe.

Holidays are to be a time of cheer, joyfulness, and celebration. Not all people have the same warm, excited feelings associated with seasonal holidays, and that is okay. With more research being done in the mental health field, it is important to discuss and address seasonal affective disorders (SADs).

Mirror’s STAND youth peer leaders had the opportunity to attend CADCA’s annual Mid-Year Institute this week, virtually. Joining youth across the nation in learning about prevention work. Youth are an essential part of the coalition building process. They bring critical insight to what they are facing each day in their communities.

May is Mental Health Awareness month and the Kansas Department for Aging and Disabilities Services (KDADS), mdlogix client, is diligently working with schools to improve the mental health of children and adolescents.