How Fargo-Moorhead professionals help those who struggle with alcoholism and mental illness

Addressing Alcohol Addiction and Mental Health in Fargo

Thane Solberg’s Journey to Recovery

Thane Solberg, currently serving as the director of engagement and events at the Ridge Treatment and Reentry Center in Fargo, shares his personal battle with alcohol and drug addiction. After reaching a low point in 2019, Solberg recognized the necessity of treatment for his addiction.

Challenging Stereotypes and Seeking Help

Solberg reflects on the normalized drinking culture in rural communities and how it delayed his decision to seek help. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing addiction beyond stereotypes.

Alcohol Use Disorder in North Dakota

Statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease and Control Prevention reveal that 14.5% of North Dakota adults suffered from an alcohol use disorder in the past year. The state also has high rates of binge drinking, with 23.9% of adults participating in such activities over a 30-day period in 2022.

The Link Between Alcohol and Mental Health

Dr. Erica Hoff, a clinical psychologist at ShareHouse, discusses the intertwined nature of alcohol use and mental health issues. She highlights the challenges faced by individuals who self-medicate with alcohol, potentially leading to further mental health concerns.

Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder

Medical professionals define alcohol use disorder as an inability to control alcohol consumption. Dr. Hoff stresses the importance of early recognition and treatment of alcohol-related problems.

State Resources for Addiction Treatment

1. Substance Use Disorder Vouchers: North Dakota provides vouchers to help individuals access treatment services.
2. Recovery Housing Assistance Program: This program offers financial support for living expenses to those in need of a stable environment.
3. Community Connect: A resource to connect individuals with alcoholism to necessary support systems.

Limited Inpatient Beds and Medicaid Challenges

The limited number of inpatient beds due to Medicaid’s institution for mental diseases exclusion poses a challenge for treatment availability in North Dakota.

Finding Support and Building a Sober Network

Therapy and building a social network with sober individuals are recommended for those dealing with alcohol use disorder. Early treatment is crucial for better outcomes.

Solberg’s Path to Recovery and Helping Others

Solberg’s recovery journey led him to the behavioral health field, where he finds fulfillment in assisting others with their struggles. He encourages those dealing with alcoholism to seek help and remain open-minded.

Continuing the Conversation on Mental Health

The ‘Minding Mental Health’ series by Forum reporters delves into various mental health topics, aiming to shed light on challenges and solutions within the community.

• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): This article emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health and substance abuse, aligning with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.
• Community Support: The resources and programs mentioned contribute to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by providing support systems for those in need.
• Inclusivity: Highlighting the diverse nature of addiction aligns with SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, advocating for equal treatment and support regardless of stereotypes.

SDGs Addressed in the Article

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Specific Targets Under the SDGs

• Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
• Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol.
• Target 11.7: By 2030, provide universal access to safe, inclusive and accessible, green and public spaces, in particular for women and children, older persons and persons with disabilities.

Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article

• Indicator 3.4.1: Mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes or chronic respiratory disease.
• Indicator 3.5.2: Harmful use of alcohol, defined according to the national context as alcohol per capita consumption (aged 15 years and older) within a calendar year in litres of pure alcohol.

The article discusses the issue of alcohol addiction and its impact on mental health, which is directly related to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. The specific targets under this goal that can be identified based on the article’s content are Target 3.4, which focuses on reducing premature mortality from non-communicable diseases and promoting mental health and well-being, and Target 3.5, which aims to strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse.

While the article does not explicitly mention indicators, it implies Indicator 3.5.2 by discussing the prevalence of binge drinking and alcohol use disorder in North Dakota. Additionally, the article touches upon the importance of accessible treatment facilities and support systems, which aligns with SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, specifically Target 11.7, which aims to provide universal access to safe and inclusive public spaces.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Copyright: Dive into this article, curated with care by SDG Investors Inc. Our advanced AI technology searches through vast amounts of data to spotlight how we are all moving forward with the Sustainable Development Goals. While we own the rights to this content, we invite you to share it to help spread knowledge and spark action on the SDGs.

Fuente: inforum.com

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