Faith Based Approach To Drug Epidemic By Gina Cerilli, Westmoreland County Commissioner, Westmoreland County
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s I embark on my second year as Westmoreland County Commissioner, it is devastating to learn of the drug overdoses in our county from 2016. The drug epidemic does not discriminate based on age, gender, or economic status. In 2016, the two age ranges tied for the most overdoses were 31-40 years of age and 51-60 years of age. Thankfully, our younger generation of teenagers fighting addiction is able to seek help in their parents, teachers, coaches, friends, and family members before it is too late. How many 50-year olds, however, have someone watching over them when they become addicted to pain pills after surgery? This is not only a Westmoreland County issue, but a national epidemic causing 1,000 Americans to die every single week. Overdoses account for more deaths in this country than cancer, heart attacks, and car accidents combined. Unfortunately, because this is a national issue, there isn’t an easy solution to the problem. Our county’s Drug Overdose Task Force has been studying different cities throughout the country and is in the process of adopting a few successful plans for Westmoreland County for 2017.
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Personally, when I am in need of help and seeking answers, I turn it over to God. The Drug Overdose Task Force similarly is attacking the drug abuse problem through a faith-based initiative. It is understood that the faith community is vital in the prevention and healing of opioid addiction. Religious leaders are necessary partners in developing, organizing, and/or offering spiritual guidance and support not only to those struggling with opioid addiction, but also to the friends and family members who suffer emotional and spiritual effects from watching loved ones battle drug dependence. A church is often the first place someone turns to when they feel they have no place else to go. As a result,
It is understood that the faith community is vital in the prevention and healing of opioid addiction.
the church staff may frequently be the first to come in contact with someone who is fighting the disease of addiction. On March 8th, the Drug Overdose Task Force hosted a Faith-Based Community Drug Seminar for religious leaders of all faiths. Clergy of all faiths are on the front lines of this epidemic and are a large part of the recovery process. Dr. Eric Kocian of St. Vincent College carried out a study consisting of 160 individuals suffering from substance abuse disorder. The survey consisted of about a dozen treatment options, including methadone, Suboxone, long term/short term rehab, treatments in jail, halfway houses, and clergy/religious/spiritual assistance. Ninety-five percent of the individuals listed clergy/religious/spiritual assistance as the most effective treatment. Westmoreland County clergymen who attended the seminar discussed how important it is that they offer a non-judgmental attitude, a listening ear, and relief from the guilt that feeds addiction. The national heartbreaking drug epidemic most likely will get worse before it gets better. I am hopeful, though, that our community members who are suffering from substance abuse disorder succeed in recovery and get a second chance at life. Do you or a loved one have issues with substance abuse? Call the Westmoreland County Substance Abuse Helpline for directions, answers, and hope at 1-844-897-8927.