Show your support to those with substance use disorder.

 We, at Brighter Futures would like to announce the “be there” initiative that our organization is implementing in Boone County, WV. We want to bring awareness to the benefits of being there for those battling behavioral health issues including substance use disorder (SUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD), with the goal of reducing stigma and encouraging support.

In 2022, the United States saw an unprecedented number of drug overdose deaths: 109,680. This escalation in drug-related deaths has contributed to recent decreases in life expectancy. Research has repeatedly found that those with stronger support networks report more readiness for change, aim for total abstinence, remain in treatment longer and have better recovery outcomes. As a result, we want to make resources available to educate members of our community about the services that we have available and to show that the best way to support those with SUD is to be there.

This initiative is supported through the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program. RCORP is a national program that support prevention, treatment, and recovery among people in rural communities who are struggling with substance use disorder (SUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD). RCORP supports a network of grantees in rural communities (including non-profits, hospitals, schools, etc.) by offering training and technical assistance, so they can enact change in their own communities.

the best way to support those with substance use disorder is to be there.

In 2022, the United States saw an unprecedented number of drug overdose deaths: 109,680. This escalation in drug-related deaths has contributed to recent decreases in life expectancy.

It doesn't matter how you show up for someone with a substance use disorder.

All that matters is that you do. Be there.

Illicit drug use disorder is the most stigmatized health condition in the world, with alcohol use disorder not far behind at fourth in the world, among a list of 18 of the most stigmatized conditions internationally.

Being there for people with substance use disorder is everything.

Estimates indicate that as many as 1 in 4 Americans will experience a mental healthcare

need or will misuse alcohol or drugs in their lifetimes.