From Leigh Simons Youmans, Senior Director, Healthcare Policy

“This uptick in opioid-related deaths should serve as a solemn reminder of a crisis that is affecting more lives than ever before. Healthcare providers continue to report that the pandemic has fast-tracked many the stressors and environmental factors that often lead to substance use disorder – especially among people of color.

“We are grateful for the attention and resources that the state is devoting to address this crisis. MHA and our members remain firmly committed to being a leader in this fight, using the same sense of urgency and community connections that have gotten us through the pandemic. We are asking people to use this news as a call to action: please check in with those in your lives who are trying to overcome addiction and help them find the resources they need.”