KESHENA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — There has been a sharp decline in drug overdose incidents and deaths so far this year on the Menominee Indian Reservation, which officials are attributing to increased education and awareness efforts.
In a news release Tuesday, the Menominee Tribe announced it has seen an almost 70% decrease in overdose incidents so far this year.
Two years ago, the tribe declared a state of emergency related to the impacts of drug use and addiction.
“These promising statistics are a testament to the efforts of our organizations, departments and community leaders who are providing accurate information, education and the necessary resources to those struggling with addiction and substance abuse,” said Ben Warrington, the emergency management director and co-chair of the Menominee Indian Tribe Drug Addiction Intervention Team (DAIT).
Menominee leaders say that while this decrease in overdose incidents is a good start, their work to combat addiction and substance abuse will continue.
Many clinics and treatment centers, such as Maehnowesekiyah Wellness Center, have seen more patients seeking assistance for mental health and/or addiction issues.
“We are seeing a mindset shift, specifically in our younger community members. People are more willing to ask for help,” said Addie Caldwell, who serves as director of wellness programs at Maehnowesekiyah Wellness Center and as co-chair of DAIT.
There is an acknowledgement of wanting to change, and this is a very positive development. Still, some hurdles remain.
Warrington encouraged residents to take advantage of addiction and mental health resources available within the Menominee Reservation.
“This fight may never be over, but we will continue to work together to find solutions that lead to healthy outcomes for our communities, now and in the future,” he said.
According to a report from the CDC in May, overdose deaths within the U.S. from 2022 to 2023 dropped 3% — a milestone that hadn’t been seen since 2018.
Comments