100 cities strong: Manchester chosen to be part of national anti-stigma pilot program
As part of the campaign, residents and community leaders in Manchester are being asked to participate in an online survey by Feb. 29, 2024 to measure addiction knowledge, confidence in how to respond to a substance use disorder and levels of stigma in the community.
Above: Watch the video version of this news with Mayor Ruais and Alderman Long.
MANCHESTER, NH – The City of Manchester has been chosen as one of 100 cities nationally to participate in an anti-stigma initiative led by the Addiction Policy Forum. The initiative is designed to increase knowledge about addiction, and improve helping behaviors toward individuals with a substance use disorder (SUD). Additionally, it will provide learning opportunities about evidence-based treatment options, signs and symptoms of addiction, and engagement strategies.
Research has found that individuals who experience stigma due to an SUD are more likely to continue engaging in substance misuse and manifest greater delayed treatment access and higher rates of dropout.
Mayor Ruais released the following statement:
“I am living proof that a person with a substance use disorder can get better. This initiative is designed to increase education and awareness about how we can remove barriers that often prevent individuals from seeking treatment, and reaffirms our community’s commitment to providing a supportive and compassionate environment for individuals who are impacted by addiction. Combatting the addiction epidemic has a direct correlation with tackling the homeless crisis as well, and represents our Administration’s efforts to get at one of the root causes of homelessness. I was honored to ask Alderman Pat Long to join me in this effort because we are prime examples of what people can accomplish when they find recovery.
As part of the campaign, residents and community leaders in Manchester are being asked to participate in a survey to measure addiction knowledge, confidence in how to respond to a substance use disorder and levels of stigma in the community. In doing so, researchers will gain a greater understanding of how the city can best position itself to offer educational resources and targeted interventions.
Alderman Pat Long released the following statement:
“This initiative is the first of many steps that Manchester can take toward achieving a healthier community. I ask all constituents and City leaders to come together to be part of the solution.”
To participate, please complete the online survey before February 29, 2024.
Once completed, pilot sites will help field test the “Responding to Addiction Intervention” developed by the Addiction Policy Forum to increase knowledge about substance use disorders, and how best to respond as an individual and community.
City health officials and community providers continue to urge those struggling with substance use disorder, anxiety or other mental health concerns to contact the Doorways by calling 2-1-1 or by visiting https://www.thedoorway.nh.gov/.
