Co-Existing Problems: A Look at Mental Health & Addictions 2022

A variety factors contribute to mental health and addictions co-existing: intergenerational trauma, lived experiences, biological, social/environmental, spiritual, etc. Often people times turn to alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism when their needs aren’t met, either from childhood or later in life. However, people can often self-heal when given the proper tools and knowledge and become beacons of hope. Removing the stigma of mental health and addictions, we can better serve our most vulnerable.

On the 2nd of March, we had Peter Thorburn walk us through mental health and addictions. An intimate group of professionals and community members due to rising COVID cases in the community looked at what causes addictions, and why alcohol and drugs are addictive. Also, why the powers that be need to treat dependency as a health issue, and not a legal issue. As well as how we can incorporate indigenous frameworks like Te Whare Tapa Wha to guide our mahi.

Using a top-down method does not meet the needs of our most vulnerable. Acknowledging the link between mental health and alcohol and drug addiction can help us find better solutions. Removing stigma, holding judgement-free and safe spaces, and identifying what’s the root cause of these issues plays a key part in the intervention of those going through, and the prevention of these cycles from repeating.