OPIOID

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

A message from From the DuPage County Sheriff EDITOR James Mendrick

Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

| OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

AMY BARROWS

Editor, Kane County Chronicle

e’ve been in the COVID-19 pandemic for nearly 18 months. It’s all that anyone has been talking about since March 2020. And as bad as that virus and its effects are, there is another epidemic going on in this country. I’m talking about the epidemic of opioid addiction. Coverage of drug overdose deaths has been buried since last year… but the problem hasn’t gone away. In fact, it’s growing. COVID-19 deserves certainly media attention, no question. But we can’t continue to ignore the problem that has taken far too many lives in this country, this state and even right here in our local communities. That’s why the information and stories in this insert are so important, to keep the spotlight on the scourge of addiction that plagues far too many people. In July, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released data on the number of opioid-related deaths in 2020. I was not surprised to learn that overdose fatalities were up, but was shocked to learn there was an increase of nearly 30% over 2019. More than 93,000 Americans lost their lives from opioids. Here in Illinois, opioid deaths also increased by 27% in 2020 over 2019. Kane County Coroner Rob Russell explained to me when I reported on this issue for the Kane County Chronicle that the increase in the county’s opioid deaths in 2020 is “definitely” correlated with the pandemic. He said that addiction is tied to mental health, which we all know has suffered for many people over the past 18 months. He explained that much of the overdose deaths were due to fentanyl, which is a synthetic drug that is much more potent than heroin. I admit, I don’t know much about fentanyl, and was surprised when Russell explained that it was driving much of the addiction-related deaths. He said that fentanyl is often trafficked through Mexico and is cheaper, stronger and more readily available than other opioids. He said that he’s seeing fewer deaths and problems from heroin. As the editor of the Kane County Chronicle, I don’t want coverage of addiction issues to be buried. I believe that the more attention that can be drawn to the ongoing problem, the better. Because that means we can help to erase the stigma that surrounds so many addicts and their families. If they feel less ashamed, perhaps they would be more likely to seek help. I certainly don’t have the answers to solve this problem, but more has to be done. I’ve spoken to far too many people who’ve lost children or other family members to opioid addiction. Their stories are horrifying, heartbreaking and inspiring. Just as they’ll never forget, we can never forget. It’s on all of us to support those who are struggling with addiction, and encourage them to seek out help. If history proves to be correct, the COVID-19 pandemic will one day end. Let’s hope we can say the same about the epidemic of opioid addiction.

hroughout my 25 years in law enforcement, I have seen, firsthand, the devastating side effects of both opioid addiction and untreated mental illness. That is why shortly after taking office in December 2018, I doubled all rehabilitation services offered by the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office. My administration also promotes the use of Deterra Drug Deactivation Bags to keep dangerous prescription medication and opioids out of our medicine cabinets and waterways. We have seen the successes of these decisions over the last two years. Partnering with JUST of DuPage, a nonprofit organization that tackles issues of alcoholism, mental illness, anger and lack of opportunity through a robust rehabilitation and reaffirmation program inside the jail, we have also created vocational training programs that have saved millions of dollars in contractual services while preparing incarcerated people to be successful upon release. The reaffirmation and pride that comes with learning new skills and knowing that you have a new skill to utilize when you’re released goes a long way in helping one cope with their mental health issues. With that in mind, my Office and JUST of DuPage formed a new partnership with WorkNet DuPage Career Center to deliver a unique workforce training program inside of the DuPage County Correctional Facility.

James Mendrick DuPage County Sherrif

Through the partnership, JUST of DuPage has been approved to serve as an eligible training provider under the Federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), and will begin certifying Sheriff’s deputies as instructors to deliver vocational programs and services that will prepare inmates for success in the workforce upon their release. Initially the funding will cover the costs related to the Sheriff’s janitorial services program, which graduated its 15th class and 94th inmate. The program costs approximately $550 per student and that covers exams, books and materials. The success stories of our recovery and rehabilitation efforts are some of what I am most proud of during my first term as your Sheriff.

INFORMATION & RESOURCES INSIDE THIS GUIDE ... Police response to mental health crises�� 3 Stay fit with St. Charles Park District�� 5 Message from Kane County Sheriff�� 7 Status of the opioid crisis�� 7 Chiropractic work can avoid opioid use�� 8 Coping skills in addiction recovery�� 8 A family’s journey with son’s addiction�� 9 Hope is real. Healing is possible�� 11 Compassionate care for substance use�� 12 Recovery is possible with SHARE�� 13 Considering addiction treatment?�� 14 Daryl Pass: ‘This is my story’�� 18 How to help yourself heal after a loss�� 19 Alison Cares Foundation�� 20 Treating pain without prescriptions�� 21

Caring for the heart of the community�� 21 An addiction interventionists’s role�� 22 Quick Guide: Phone resources�� 22 The link between COVID-19 and opioids�� 23 Exposing the truth behind opioids�� 24 Resource Guide�� 25 Overdose Awareness Day Memorial Event�� 26 Being social to boost mental health�� 27 Mental health treatment at TriCity Family�� 27 College anxiety and depression�� 28 Stress is up, but treatment is not�� 29 3 strategies to protect mental health�� 29 Help for someone with suicidal thoughts�� 30 Mental health resources for children�� 30 The case for compassion�� 31

When police respond to

‘We still have a duty to act to protect them from themselves and to protect society from them’ BY BRENDA SCHORY

Photos by Sandy Bressner – sbressner@shawmedia.com Campton Hills Police Officer Scott Coryell feels added pressure on police to respond to mental health crises, including suicide and suicide by cop incidents.

opportunity are generally the first time people become involved with police and incarceration, Hain said. “Of course, sometimes those are co-existing but those three pathways are going to be the primary pathway into our custody,” Hain said. Toward that end of assisting people in crisis, Hain’s office now has a social worker on staff five days a week and available for emergency calls, including crisis intervention for mental health and substance abuse. New within the Kane County Jail are pods – another name for cellblocks – specifically for detainees with mental health and addiction problems. The sheriff’s office has contracted with psychologists, social workers and addiction specialists from Lighthouse Recovery to assist detainees. There also is a Recovery Pod because of the propensity for mental illness and addiction to be co-occurring, Hain said. “That intensive addiction treatment from Lighthouse Recovery is not just getting away from their drug of choice, it’s digging in and identifying the trauma that makes them go back to drugs for relief,” Hain said. In 2020, about 280 detainees went through the Recovery and

Mental Health pods, Hain said, and 22 corrections officers received certification as mental health officers because they are with detainees 24 hours a day. “I wanted them to have that elevated understanding,” Hain said. Hain also set up a reentry plan with mental health support through Ecker Center for Mental Health on the county’s north side and Association for Individual Development on the south side, Hain said, for when detainees are released. “We obviously make sure they make the reentry,” Hain said. “Lighthouse continues addiction counseling free to them. Even when they leave us, that continues. And all these programs are costing taxpayers zero dollars.” Hain instituted additional job training services at the jail, and connects detainees to jobs, further assisting them on their release to live sober, have a means of support and to stay out of the criminal justice system. “And this is the toughest on crime anyone has ever been,” Hain said. “I’m soft on people.” In the Kane County Sheriff’s Office’s 2020 annual report, Hain wrote: Continued on page 23

Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

away. We still have a duty to act to protect them from themselves and to protect society from them.” Campton Hills police officer If a person in the throes of a Scott Coryell remembers a time mental health crisis does not want in the 1990s when he worked for to receive service, it can’t be forced Bensenville and they were called to on them if they’re not a danger to search the woods for a woman who themselves or others – the hospital was a possible suicide. will have to release them, he said. “She packs a few little things, “Every person I’ve ever seen, leaves the house and walks up to on the second or third trip to the the forest preserve and the kids are hospital, they know what’s going like, ‘What is going on?’ ” Coryell to happen. They’re shaking their said. “We find her that day. And head, ‘I don’t wanna go. I don’t we get her into a hospital and wanna go. I know what’s going treatment.” to happen.’ They’re going to be A couple of weeks later, he learned she later committed suicide locked down for a day or two or three, and they learn to stop on her second attempt. talking,” Coryell said. “You sit there and go, ‘What “If you go back 100 years, we more could we have done?’ You didn’t give people that choice,” realize that at some point it stops Coryell said. “We used to have 12 being my ability to do anything,” [state] mental institutions in Illinois, Coryell said. and now we have seven or less. Before coming to Campton Hills, What do we exchange that for? Coryell worked for the St. Charles Prison.” Police Department for nearly 20 years. RESPONDING TO “Toward the end of my career there, we were doing more MENTAL HEALTH CRISES mental health than anything else,” While police increasingly are Coryell said. “Are they a danger asked to respond to people to themselves or others? We as suffering mental health crises, Kane police officers, we can’t just walk County Sheriff Ron Hain and local police departments, such as St. Charles, North Aurora and Geneva, now have social workers on staff. Hain and Kane County State’s Attorney Jamie Mosser have taken steps to address the issues by assisting people suffering mental health crises rather than jailing or releasing them without support. This spring, Mosser received Kane County Board support to establish a Mental Health Unit to be staffed by attorneys at the AMITA Health Mercy Medical Center in Aurora and at Elgin Mental Health. This was to facilitate medication petitions for people in the hospital so they would get treatment rather than just be released “right back Charles Taylor – now a former Kane into the criminal justice system County jail detainee – speaks to because we are not treating them.” community members during a tour. The intersection of mental health Sheriff Ron Hain established a three-floor residential treatment facility in previously issues with drug addiction – usually unused space at the jail. self-medicating – and lack of

OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS |

MENTAL HEALTH CRISES CALLS

Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

| OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

Promoting Healthy Lifestyles With

FUN & SAFE Recreation Opportunities Your Park District is Always Here to Support Our Community

stcparks.org

hen you think about the words – fitness, wellness and exercise, what do you imagine? To many people, the vision of using cardio equipment and lifting weights comes to mind as fitness is the condition of being physically fit and healthy. Fitness centers, like Norris Recreation Center, provide this type of equipment (and more) as part of a membership but also offer ways to get you motivated to exercise. You can choose the one-onone coaching from a personal trainer to help keep you accountable for your routine. Or maybe you’d like to join a group fitness class led by a certified instructor who specializes in either working the total body or just focusing on strengthening your core. Seasonally, Norris offers health & wellness educational programs to inspire you to commit to be fit. Norris also specializes in teaching tennis and offering swimming lessons for all ages and abilities. Beyond the fitness center, though, is a world of opportunities to keep you active. So where do you fitness? The St. Charles Park District encompasses a multitude of parks and facilities to meet your fitness needs. Whenever the spirit moves you to go running or walking (with or without a furry friend), it’s pretty easy to find a trail in a park or natural area in St. Charles. Strap on the sneakers and head outdoors to breathe the fresh air and take in the scenic sights, such as the sculpture exhibit in Mt. St. Mary Park. In fact, many parks feature signs that indicate walking loops so you can track your steps. Or grab a bike and pedal along the trails such as the River Bend Bike Trail or Fox River Bike Trail that wind throughout beautiful St. Charles to see the

area from a different vantage point. And, speaking of scenic views, the 9-hole Pottawatomie Golf Course is a great place to experience fitness and nature simultaneously. Who doesn’t want to sweat to the sound of song birds? How many calories do you think you can burn helping with chores at Primrose Farm? While it depends partially on your intensity level, activities such as hoeing and shoveling that work your entire body can burn up to 500 calories per hour. If you’d like a more peaceful experience at the farm, try a morning of meditation with Nigerian dwarf goats – a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience! For those who choose to play sports, there’s outdoor athletic fields and courts all throughout the town. St. Charles is definitely known for its soccer, but other popular organized sports include lacrosse, football, basketball and baseball/softball. Park District recreation programs that impact your overall fitness regime range from martial arts to ballroom dancing and floor hockey to ice skating.

There’s so many choices! If you prefer to be indoors, Pottawatomie Community Center offers drop-in gym times for a group of friends to arrange a quick pick up game of basketball, volleyball or pickleball. Concerned about balance and stability? The gentle movements of Tai Chi can help improve flexibility and strength. Want to get that heart rate operating at peak efficiency? WERQ, aka cardio dance, is a great way to build stamina and endurance. With wellness programs that run the gamut from ‘A’ (aerobics) to ‘Z’ (zumba), park district programs provide a dazzling array of fun fitness choices for any age and skill level. Best of all, these programs are so reasonably priced – most run between $5 and $10 per session – that it’s easy to maintain an exercise program to meet your fitness goals. Lifestyle experts and medical professionals all agree that one of the best ways to achieve a long and healthy life is through physical activity. The act of doing something – anything – that gets a body up and about, out and around, is nearly as important as what that activity may be. But fitting a fitness program into a typical workday is often the biggest challenge. Not only are trails, paths and open-play areas ready whenever you are, park district fitness programs are conveniently offered during mornings, afternoons and evenings to accommodate even the most demanding schedule. So ditch the excuses, dig out the workout clothes and head to the St. Charles Park District for a fun, flexible and affordable fitness program. To discover what opportunities await you: visit stcparks.org.

Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

with St. Charles Park District

BY ERIKA YOUNG

OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS |

EXPERIENCE FITNESS

Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

| OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

Over a Century of Caring for the Fox Valley

• ST. CHARLES 405 E. Main Street St. 630. 584.0060

• GENEVA 1771 W State St. 630.232.7337

www.yursfuneralhomes.com SM-CL1640908 SM-CL1909226

ince our last article to the public on opioid awareness, overdoses, and new initiatives to curb the rise in deaths, we have some exciting news to report. In our original article, I discussed that we had recently partnered with Lighthouse Recovery of St. Charles to implement robust medically assisted treatment in our corrections center. Knowing that the addicted are 74 times more likely to overdose and die after release if left untreated while in custody, we believed that instituting this type of program would have an impact on the rising death trajectory in Kane County. Now, after two and a half years of metrics, it seems we have turned the tide. By comparing Kane County Coroner Rob Russell’s opioid overdose death data from 2017-2020

Ron Hain Kane County Sherrif

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Kane County Opiate Deaths 2011-2020

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to pass two separate County zoning ordinance adjustments and one State law to allow for this program. I am proud to announce that the County ordinances were changed and the State law passed unanimously through the House and Senate. Due to legislative delays created by the COVID-19 pandemic, we are finally in a position to launch our lease marketing campaign. This initiative will place a residential treatment center on top of those re-entering the community from a county jail and people passing through the courthouse next door. Providing proper care to our most marginalized residents will have a continued direct effect on addiction and crime rates while making for a safer Kane.

2020

1616

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89% 89%decrease decrease compared comparedtoto two twoprevious previous years yearsbefore before Recovery RecoveryPod Pod ODOD Deaths Deaths

2020

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The status of the opioid crisis as of August 2021

lthough the nation and the world are primarily focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, we all need to remind ourselves that the Opioid Crisis has not left us. In Kane County, the number of deaths from opioids increased 16% from 2019 to 2020. There seems to be no slowing down in 2021 of these deaths. Each and every death does not just represent one life lost. It also represents pain and suffering for those left behind in family and friends, as well as lost potential that the community loses, due to the individual talents and skills

Rob Russell Kane County Coroner

of those individuals. This is illustrated in the fact that the average age range in most deaths has increased. The average age range for an opioid death is currently around 40 in Kane County. This age range is considered the height of productivity in any society, so clearly the community suffers as this is a very preventable death. In general, drug addiction is thought of as a younger person’s issue. The rising age range for opioid deaths may be the catalyst that generates a new paradigm in how the opioid war is fought. For example, in 2018 in Kane County, 45%

Editor’s Note for Rob Russell Coroner Russell has done many positive things to help addicts in Kane County. He had a part in bringing the “A Way Out” program to the county, along with Sheriff Ron Hain. The program provides “non-punitive support and treatment center connection” to those suffering from drug addiction. Russell was also instrumental in bringing the anti-opioid

of the recorded opioid deaths were in the 30-39 years of age category, versus 11% in the 40-49 age bracket. In 2020, those numbers changed dramatically: the 30-39 age bracket and the 40-49 age bracket were an identical 27%. As of right now, no clear indicator has been identified but mental health and stress may have a compounding effect. Unfortunately, my area of expertise is limited to identifying and explaining the deaths that result from the problem. My hope is that this information will equip those whose expertise can slow this despicable beast.

Narcan to Kane County, training employees on how to use it when someone has overdosed. Narcan can be delivered via nasal spray or injection. Russell has also sounded the alarm to county officials about the increase in fentanyl overdoses, and is a member of the Kane County Opioid Task Force, which is led by the Kane County Health Department. He has also served on several opioid task forces in the Chicago area.

Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

Opioid Impact Opioid Impact Kane County Opiate Deaths 2011-2020 Opioid Impact Kane County Opiate Deaths 2011-2020

with detainee lists from the same years, the Sheriff’s Office and the Lighthouse Recovery program were able to drop the overdose death rate of the formerly incarcerated by 89%. This had a direct impact on the community overdose death rate by a 40% reduction using data from those same four years. Kane County is one of the only communities in the nation that is able to announce a downturn in opioid-related deaths in the nation. We feel this is proof-positive that implementing proper care in a county’s jail will address the most severe concerns of a community. We also discussed the leasing of open space at the Kane County Sheriff’s Office to a residential treatment center in our previous article. To accomplish this, we needed

OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS |

Message from Kane County Sheriff Ron Hain

Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

| OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

8 Chiropractic and soft tissue work

can help avoid or reduce opioid use

he Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stated that one in four patients who receive prescription opioids for non-cancer pain in primary care settings end up struggling with addiction. Nearly 1,000 people per day are treated in emergency rooms for misusing prescription opioids. How can chiropractic and soft tissue work help? At 41 North Chiropractic and Soft Tissue Clinic, I specialize in a technique called Active Release (ART). This works with the premise of fascial adhesions and repetitive overuse injuries. When the tissue is lacking oxygen due to a repetitive overuse or traumatic injury, it becomes tough or nodular in nature. Many like to call them “knots.” ART is a movement-based technique, which breaks up the fascial adhesions or “knots.” Range of motion is then restored, which then reduces pain. Chiropractic

adjustments also will help to restore joint mobility and again, reduce pain and increase range of motion and function. Often, the only thing that is recommended following is stretching and icing. This prevents and often reduces opioids needed, as patients become pain-free and functional with conservative care. A recent study* stated, “Patients with spinal pain who saw a chiropractor had half the risk of filling an opioid prescription. Among those who saw a chiropractor within 30 days of diagnosis, the reduction in risk was greater as compared with those with their first visit after the acute phase. *Whedon JM, Toler AWJ, Kazal LA, Bezdjian S, Goehl JM, Greenstein J. Impact of Chiropractic Care on Use of Prescription Opioids in Patients with Spinal Pain. Pain Med. 2020 Dec 25;21(12):3567-3573. doi: 10.1093/pm/ pnaa014. PMID: 32142140.

41 North Chiropractic & Soft Tissue Clinic, P.C 1434 East Main Street, Suite A, St. Charles, IL 60174 (630) 549-7870 • 41northchiropractic.com

Coping skills in addiction recovery

any individuals struggling with addiction don’t start off dependent on their drug of choice. Often they have started using drugs as a coping mechanism to alleviate internal struggles, stress, physical conditions, trauma and mental disorders. Although in the beginning substances seem to be helping them escape, eventually the substance becomes all consuming. During active addiction substances become an unhealthy coping mechanism. It is paramount when in early recovery to find new healthy coping mechanisms to combat the overwhelming feelings.

WHAT ARE COPING MECHANISMS?

Coping mechanisms are unhealthy and healthy methods in which individuals alleviate physical and mental stressors. Unhealthy coping skills are generally utilized to escape the problem or to temporarily relieve feelings.

UNHEALTHY COPING SKILLS

In addiction recovery, individuals may find that substance use is not their only unhealthy coping mechanism. Unhealthy coping skills are a sure fire way to sabotage recovery efforts for example, negative self-talk or minimizing or denying substances as being a problem.

Unhealthy coping skills: Negative self talk • Denial • Risky behaviors • Violence or yelling • Pessimistic ideals • Passive aggressive • Picking fights • Emotional eating • Avoidance • Isolation • Blaming others • Self harm • To much or too little sleep

HEALTHY COPING SKILLS

Healthy coping skills are helpful ways in which the individuals learns to work through or overcome adverse stressors. Healthy coping skills: Talking with trusted support person (therapist, friend, family, group) • Exercise • Healthy eating • Routine health checks • Journaling • Meditation/ yoga • Achievable goals • Finding the positives/practicing gratitude • Service/volunteering • Positive selftalk • Relaxation • Healthy boundary setting • Solving/ resolving problems • Planning challenges and setback Recovery is difficult but with the proper implementation of healthy coping skills, each day gets a little easier. Having a positive mindset and taking responsibility for recovery is a step in the right direction towards achieving long-term sobriety. If you are concerned and want to know if a loved one has an addiction, give Care Addiction Center a call at: (630) 402-0144.

Care Addiction Center provides effective, professional and caring substance abuse treatment for those individuals and their loved ones suffering from the disease of alcoholism and/or substance abuse.

TREATMENT PROGRAMS INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT

AFTERCARE PROGRAM

Centered on small, intimate and individualized session of generally less than size clients. Smaller groups empower honesty and growth among patients.

For individuals who have completed an outpatient rehab program and see the beneﬁts of maintaining contact.

OUTPATIENT PROGRAM

Available at your convenience and provided by one of our compassionate counselors.

Designed for patients who need a less intensive program and are available two evenings per week.

INDIVIDUAL COUNSELING ONLINE ADDICTION TREATMENT In response to COVID-19 we are providing Online Addition Treatment with video conferencing.

CARE ADDICTION CENTER 1250 Executive Pl #301, Geneva, IL 60134

(630) 402-0144 www.careaddiction.com

SM-CL1909985

OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS |

HE’S MY SON A mother shares her family’s journey with son’s heroin addiction BY VICKI FOLEY

SHAW MEDIA EMPLOYEE

Photos provided Left: Vicki Foley displays a photo and memorial pillow of her son, Christopher, who died of a heroin overdose in 2007. Top right: A childhood school photo of Christopher. His susbtance abuse began in junior high with smoking. Bottom right: Christopher, age 24, holds his daughter, Caylee.

him out. I was so worried and so torn. After a few days he was released on his own recognizance, but it felt like forever until that happened. His senior year of high school ended early with an expulsion for marijuana possession. At the age of 18, Chris moved out and that same year, he tried heroin at a party with friends. The downward spiral continued. His life and ours forever changed. He broke into our home and stole jewelry and anything he could find of value to pawn. He also stole from hardware stores in the area and then returned the tools to collect the money for his addiction. But at the age of 24, Chris became a father to my ray of sunshine – Caylee. I believe he was sober for two years of her life at this time. But the drug called him again. Chris was incarcerated on a forgery charge, but was given a deal to be released to work with a detective to narc on drug dealers. A week later he was found dead on his bathroom floor of a heroin overdose. I will never forget this day, July 15, 2007, when I received the visit from police officers telling me of his death. In 2000, when we were going through this with Chris, a song came out by Mark Schultz entitled “He’s My Son.” It still brings tears to

my eyes. He wrote it about a family dealing with their son’s cancer while he served as a youth minister – but it was our story, too. Because heroin addiction is a cancer, too. The chorus goes like this: Can you hear me? Am I getting through tonight? Can you see him? Can you make him feel all right? If you can hear me Let me take his place somehow See, he’s not just anyone He’s my son It’s been 41 years since the day that I looked into that loving baby’s face. Much has transpired, but I will always be grateful to God for allowing me to be Chris’ mom. Although I miss Christopher desperately, his legacy lives on and I know he is so proud of us. Our family formed a 501c3 in his memory, Chris’ Walk Against Substance Abuse. We have done our best to educate and support addicts and their families. Through it all, our family has become stronger and more united. We have a mission that is guided by God. We mentor at the jail and seek opportunities where we can help. We do it to honor Chris’s life. Because he’s not just anyone. He’s my son.

Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

As I looked upon the face of my newborn son on Jan. 29, 1980, I did not know what he would accomplish – I just did not know how he would impact our lives. Christopher became a heroin addict, and it took a terrible toll on our family. Don’t be fooled into thinking that there must be something wrong with my family, that we were uncaring, bad parents or that my son was weak. Addiction does not select the weak, the strong, the wealthy or the poor. There isn’t any criteria for who can become an Addiction does addict. And this not select the disease affects the whole family. weak, the strong, the The emotional wealthy or the poor. toll of loving There isn’t any criteria for an addict is who can become an crushing. I clung addict. And this disease to my husband support. Many affects the whole family.” for nights, I was on my knees praying to God to take this addiction away and for the wisdom and strength to handle what was ahead. The siblings of an addict take on more duties and sacrifice their time and their activities because their brother needed the most attention. They now had a new image – the kids with the addict for a brother. I visited him in numerous jails, driving four hours at a time to see him the nine months he spent in the penitentiary in downstate Illinois. I’ve been scared, searched and treated like a criminal myself. Grandmas should never have to visit their grandkids in jail, but my mother did – and she wrote him letters. My sisters were always there for a tearful call or a visit with a hug. There was never a more supportive family. And yet … it started in Christopher’s junior high years when he got into the wrong crowd. He started smoking cigarettes and then marijuana. He stole items from family members to pawn to pay for his new habit. Eventually, we had to put locks on the bedroom doors to keep Chris from stealing from us. We went to family counseling. Chris had individual counseling and there was his community service for cigarette smoking – but the behaviors continued. At the age of 17 he was arrested in Cook County for marijuana possession. I cried the whole day as we practiced our tough love and didn’t bail

Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

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OPIOID AWARENESS

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Hope is real. Healing is possible. While group availability varies by campus, Care Night at Christ Community also offers the following groups and workshops: Family Members of Addicts and Alcoholics. This group is designed to bring encouragement and hope to family members, spouses, or loved ones of an addict. It will challenge your thinking about the addiction and enable you to best help your addicted loved one. Re-engage Marriage Workshop. Whether your marriage needs to be reignited, or is in need of a complete resurrection, re-engage is a safe place for couples to reconnect and grow. We explore topics like embracing humility, extending grace and forgiveness, communication and conflict, commitment and truth, expectations and understanding and more. Divorce and Separation Care. Find help and healing for the hurt of separation and divorce. Divorce Care is a friendly and caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. Don’t go through separation or divorce alone. Groups are led by people who understand what you are going through and want to help. You’ll gain access to valuable Divorce Care resources to help you deal with the pain of the past and look forward to rebuilding your life. Grief Support. Grieving the loss of a loved one? Join a group that provides a safe environment for grieving adults to find

comfort and peace in their journey towards spiritual and emotional healing. This group explores topics related to the grief process followed by small group table discussions with others who have experienced a similar loss. Post-Abortion Recovery. If you’re a woman who has ever made the decision of abortion and now find yourself suffering with fear, guilt, anger, isolation, sadness or grief, join this confidential group to experience a deep healing of freedom and forgiveness. Our St. Charles Campus also offers a postabortion group for men struggling with the emotional fallout of abortion. Financial Peace University (FPU). This is a practical, biblically-based nine-week course from Dave Ramsey, which is designed to help you learn to handle money God’s way. The dynamic, motivational lessons are an essential for people in any financial situation, and cover topics like eliminating debt, saving and spending wisely, and how to give like never before. Engaging teaching, scriptural application, discussion, and practical tools will challenge you to make a plan for your money and change your family tree forever! n Learn more about Care Night in Aurora, DeKalb, St. Charles, or Streamwood at ccclife.org/carenight.

Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

n the biblical biographies of Jesus in the Bible, there is an account of a woman who suffered for 18 years. She had heard about this Jewish teacher, Jesus. She had heard that he healed people. She heard that, through him, getting better was possible. When she heard Jesus was nearby, she did whatever she had to do to get to him. She dared to believe and to hope. And she was healed. At Christ Community Church (ccclife.org), we recognize that life can be hard. We, like that woman, can suffer. Pain can be overwhelming. We make decisions we regret. We live with guilt. We want to get better, but we may have lost hope in that ever happening. No matter how you’re struggling, you are not alone. We are here to walk through struggle with you--but also offer help to not stay there. Hope is real. Healing is possible. Each of the four Christ Community Church campuses in the western suburbs offers a weekly collection of support and recovery groups we call Care Night. It a place for help, hope, and healing. Here, many have found healing--like the suffering woman--through Jesus. At every Care Night, we offer the Surrender & Win recovery group for a wide-range of addictions from drugs and alcohol to food, gambling, pornography, and more. No matter what you are struggling with, we want to help set you free and provide you with the tools necessary to be restored to wholeness.

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| OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

Compassionate Treatment for Substance Use Disorders If you or a loved one is battling drug or alcohol dependency or addiction, Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital can help. Northwestern Medicine Behavioral Health at Central DuPage Hospital offers the latest in medical and therapeutic care for the treatment of substance use disorders, including opioid and alcohol abuse. In response to the current opioid addiction epidemic, Behavioral Health has expanded care options to help those struggling with addiction to move toward long-term recovery. Behavioral Health offers: • Addiction medicine physicians who deliver care in outpatient and inpatient settings • Psychiatry consultation for patients who have co-occurring mental health disorders • Onsite medication-assisted therapy offered to patients enrolled in Northwestern Medicine addiction programs, bringing long-term relief from alcohol and opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings • Patient education led by medical professionals, including physicians and nurses, regarding medication-assisted therapy, opioid-overdose rescue and smoking cessation The first step towards a long-lasting recovery and return to normalcy is an in-person clinical evaluation. This evaluation includes assessment of physical symptoms and mental health treatment needs. The skilled Northwestern Medicine Behavioral Health assessment team uses American Society of Addiction Medicine criteria to determine appropriate program placement. Take the first step to recovery: Schedule an evaluation by calling 630.933.4000.

Northwestern Medicine Behavioral Health is proud to make a difference for individuals and families struggling with emotional, psychiatric, substance abuse or addiction issues. Our team of expert,

Insurance coverage is required for admission to medical facilities. Most major medical insurances are accepted at Northwestern Medicine Behavioral Health at Central DuPage Hospital. Accepted Affordable Care Act insurance plans are Meridian and BCBS Community Family Health Plan. About Northwestern Medicine Behavioral Health Northwestern Medicine provides a full range of behavioral health services for teens and adults challenged with psychiatric or mental health problems, and adults with substance abuse or addiction disorders. Our specialists provide research-based, best-practice inpatient and outpatient care to meet the patient’s specific treatment needs.

compassionate providers is with you every step of the way, offering emotional support and advanced therapies tailored to your needs. No matter when or why you need us, we’ll be there. To learn more about what makes us better, or to ﬁnd a location near you, visit nm.org/behavioralhealth.

BETTER

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The SHARE Program CAN HELP

he SHARE Program in Hoffman Estates is a JCAHO accredited, 46-bed medically monitored detox and residential rehab program for adult males and females 18 years and older. The program is licensed and partially funded by the State of Illinois, Department of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery. SHARE clients come from all over the state of Illinois and are primarily covered by Medicaid or have no insurance. The program consists of assessment, individual counseling, group counseling, educational lectures and information, leisure assessments and recreational

therapy, relapse prevention education and planning, family sessions, case management, on-site 12-step meetings daily, and continuing care planning. SHARE is staffed to work with the dually diagnosed client, working with the MISA (Mentally Ill Substance Abuse) counselor and the psychiatrist for medication and symptom management. All potential clients are screened by the intake department and scheduled according to bed availability. The average length of stay for the detox program is 3-5 days and 21-28 days in the residential rehab program. No one is turned away for an inability to pay.

The program is located in Hoffman Estates; you may call 847-882-4181.

Residential substance abuse treatment Outpatient gambling We accept all insurance Plans (including Medicaid) Located in Hoffman Estates 847-882-4181 SM-CL1909411

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Substance abuse recovery is possible with SHARE

OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS |

Problem with addiction?

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| OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

Considering

Gateway Foundation is a life preserver for people wanting to overcome the obstacles of substance abuse

ADDICTION W TREATMENT for the first time?

hen considering treatment for drugs or alcohol, the first obstacle you have to overcome is yourself. If your life is in shambles, your closest relationships are begging you to consider help, or you feel like everything you cherish is slipping through your fingers, addiction treatment offers you a way out. It’s the life preserver in a turbulent ocean. If you’re considering treatment for the first time, you may be scared. You probably have lots of questions about what to expect. Below are some straight, simple answers about addiction treatment so you can walk your next steps with confidence and focus on your recovery.

15 Personalization is important when it comes to addiction treatment. An individualized plan ensures that you get the help you need for your unique situation. A confidential intake assessment, either over the phone or in-person, usually consists of a simple conversation, including a physical and psychological screen. The intake assessment helps the staff understand the extent of your use history, social and emotional factors that will influence your recovery process, and whether you have any underlying mental health and medical conditions.

DETOXIFICATION

TREATMENT

Once the drug/alcohol is out of your system, the real work begins. Whether you choose to stay full-time in an inpatient facility or you opt for outpatient care or virtual care, addiction treatment is the cornerstone of recovery. It usually involves multiple therapies and treatment services designed to set you up for success after you leave. Classes, group counseling and individual therapy arm you with: • Tools to manage stress and unavoidable triggers

At the center of your recovery is your experience in treatment. Whether it’s residential or outpatient, treatment has the potential to transform your life. While programs and services vary from facility to facility, your experience will involve: • Learning how to better take care of yourself — mentally, physically and emotionally • Lots of meetings, research-based therapies and group sessions customized around your needs • Specially tailored homework assignments • Lots of breaks and time for reflection and relaxation • New friendships and peer support

• Structure: After the chaos of addiction, structure and daily routines full of productive activities and therapeutic sessions will help you focus on your healing. • Focus on health: Establishing a healthy relationship with food and exercise will help your body recover from the trauma of addiction and give you tools for your everyday life when you return home. • Safety and support: Treatment is designed to be a safe, supportive environment filled with people who understand exactly what you’re going through. • Multiple therapies and treatment services: Addiction is a disease, and finding the right treatment for you is crucial. Treatment centers with multiple therapy options ensure you find a path that speaks to you. • Medical care: Addiction can leave your health in a vulnerable state. Treatment facilities offer medical and clinical supervision to ensure your recovery process is safe and effective. • Goal building: You’ll learn how to set recovery goals and how to go about achieving them. • New habits and routines: Learning new habits will help you face the day-to-day struggle of recovery once your treatment program comes to an end.

WHY ADDICTION TREATMENT WORKS

FIND EFFECTIVE, COMPASSIONATE ADDICTION TREATMENT

ONGOING CARE

Rehabilitation is not the end of your recovery journey. Many treatment centers offer aftercare services as well. You can receive ongoing encouragement even after returning home through group therapy and alumni support or events.

THE ADDICTION TREATMENT EXPERIENCE

Treatment is designed to offer the support you need to get clean and reclaim your life. The decision to get help will allow you to break the cycle of substance use and provide you with valuable tools to change your life. Here are just a few of the benefits of addiction treatment:

Don’t let your hesitation or fear about what addiction treatment may be like prevent you from changing your life for the better. Learn more about this positive, life-changing experience. Contact Gateway Foundation today. Please call us now at 877-505-HOPE (4673)

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A major fear for most people entering treatment is detox. Whether medically assisted or not, detoxification involves ridding your body of the substances that you’re physically dependent on. Many treatment centers have their own detox program where they provide you with the support and medical care you need to ensure this stage goes as smoothly as possible. Based on your frequency of use, amount and type of substance, medical support is crucial as detoxing on your own can be very dangerous.

• Relapse prevention techniques • The ability to replace unhealthy thought patterns with new, healthy ones • Expert therapy to address underlying causes of your use

OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS |

INTAKE ASSESSMENT

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LIFE-SAVING ADDICTION TREATMENT At Gateway Foundation Aurora, our personalized addiction treatment programs provide the best care to meet your needs. We help patients and families achieve and sustain recovery through our alcohol and drug treatment programs: • •

Residential Outpatient

• •

Medication-Assisted Treatment Recovery Community

Call us for a free, in-depth confidential consultation. 877.505.4673

400 Mercy Ln, Aurora, IL 60506 24-Hour Admissions | 630.966.7400 | GatewayFoundation.org

5 Reasons To Choose Gateway Foundation for Opioid, Alcohol and Drug Treatment Superior Patient Satisfaction Scores Treating more than 10,000 patients per day, 97% of patients would recommend Gateway Foundation to others1.

Experts in treating co-occurring mental health disorders, which studies indicate 40% of substance use disorder patients suffer2.

Nine Evidence-Based Practices Custom treatment plans are derived from a wide range of evidence-based practices such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Sobriety.

Certified Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Center Administered by a physician, MAT can ease withdrawal symptoms, eliminate cravings and block opiate receptors helping to lead to lifetime of sobriety.

A Lifetime of Recovery- Beyond 30 Days Gateway Foundation is the first to establish a robust alumni community with daily meetings, online message boards and a platform to take their 30-day education and treatment into a lifetime of practice.

In 2020, there were 2,944 opioid overdose deaths in Illinois. This is a 33% increase from 2019 and the highest number of yearly fatalities that Illinois has on record. (Source: IDHS/SUPR)

24-Hour Helpline | 877.505.HOPE (4673) | GatewayFoundation.org Press Ganey Associates, Behavioral Health Survey, 2015. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Center of Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality, 2017.

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Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

First in Illinois to Achieve Dual-Diagnosis Enhanced Certification

OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS |

Addiction Medicine. Saving Lives.

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| OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

Daryl Pass on sobriety and recovery:

‘THIS IS MY STORY’

am a person that has nine years of sobriety and relishes in recovery, and the two are very different, in my opinion. For me, sobriety is that I am not putting any mind-altering substances in my being, but recovery is a completely different component. Recovery is about transformative thinking and behavioral change. Nine years ago, I didn’t have that understanding as I was barely holding on to life and was immersed in substances and addictive behavior. I was existing and not living. For 30-plus years, substances were an everyday occurrence for me, and that ranged from marijuana to alcohol and eventually gravitating to crack cocaine, and the last 23 years of my substance use was heroin every day. In addition to that, I was addicted to street behavior – gangs, violence, gambling and the like. All were a part of my chronic dysfunction. I was using substances and behaviors to fill a massive void – a void that was riddled with abuse, anger, resentment, grief and fear. All of these things were the prerequisite for me to self-medicate and try to solve my why without help. Abuse comes in many forms. For me, there was sexual abuse at 8 years of age – I never told anyone until I was over 40 years old. That in and of itself caused me not to trust, and in many cases not to believe and to embrace fear. There was also grief in that where I had lost several people – family members and friends that I cared deeply about. Some were to sickness and some to street violence. I never knew how to process that sadness, so I held on to it. Having those things as part of my

internal character caused me to embrace substances and those behaviors even more. It truly prevented me from loving and allowing myself to be loved. I made two attempts at inpatient treatment and several detoxes. I had multiple arrests and jail time and a stint in prison that didn’t stop me, and I just came back and picked up where I left off. It wasn’t until I was in so much pain and could no longer bear to look at myself in the mirror that I decided to tap out and by any means necessary to get better. I understand today that I truly was uninformed and not ready for change, but once the pain got so unbearable, there was nothing left but death. I DIDN’T WANT TO DIE! I made a decision to use the same veracity to kill myself, to live instead. On June 18, 2012, I went into inpatient treatment for the third time and last time. Today, I understand my disorder, and it is a disorder. Left untreated, it is progressive and deadly. Treated, through commitment, education and for sure service to others is a recipe for success. Today my wound is now a blessing. I am an advocate for reducing stigma and increasing knowledge surrounding substance use disorder. In doing so, today I relish in recovery and am living my best life. Presently I am a manager for recovery support at the Kenneth Young Center; I own two sober homes and a nonprofit – New Beginnings Recovery Mission. I am so glad the Lord allowed me to choose life, and with his help I am able to help others navigate the minefield of addiction. Never give up hope.

DARYL PASS’ PHILOSOPHY ON SOBRIETY & RECOVERY:

The two are very different, in my opinion. For me, sobriety is that I am not putting any mind-altering substances in my being, but recovery is a completely different component. Recovery is about transformative thinking and behavioral change.”

how you feel is very beneficial and allows you to get your emotions out. “By sharing your feelings and your experiences, you’ll learn to relax, find a sense of calmness, and begin to move forward in the grieving process,” he said. Planning for a holiday or other trigger day can help prepare you in advance so you have coping tools ready if you need them. Don’t mask your pain with potentially damaging activities like excessive online shopping or overindulging in food or alcohol. Remember that everyone deals with loss during their life, and there’s no right or wrong way to grieve – it’s an individual process with no specific timeline. One of Adolf’s favorite ministers says a loss creates a hole in your heart. As life goes on, you will have other loved ones die, and you get more holes in your heart. However, over time, the healing process works its magic and helps the holes become much smaller.

7000 S. MADISON ST. WILLOWBROOK, IL 630.325.2300 2921 S. HARLEM AVE. BERWYN, IL 708.484.4111

For more information about healing after a loss, please contact: Adolf Funeral Home & Cremation Services John R. Adolf, Director John@adolfservices.com www.adolfservices.com 7000 S. Madison St. • Willowbrook, IL 60527 630-325-2300 2921 S. Harlem Ave. • Berwyn, IL 60402 708-484-4111

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oss can present itself in many different ways: you can lose money, a job, a pet, a friendship, or a beloved family member, and each is very painful in its own way. Losing a family member can be unbelievably difficult, and the grief that follows can be all-consuming. In his role as funeral director for Adolf Funeral Services, John Adolf works with the surviving family members to help with the healing process, but he says it’s important for people to help themselves in a variety of ways. “One of the best ways to begin healing after a devastating loss is to understand the importance of acknowledging your feelings and learning how to express them,” he explained. “I believe keeping your emotions inside can be very harmful to your emotional and physical well-being.” Adolf says that finding someone to talk with so you can truly share

OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS |

How to help yourself Outstanding Service And Amenities heal after a loss A tradition of trust for over 130 years

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Alison Flory’s legacy: Help for substance use disorder

n accidental drug overdose robbed Alison Flory of a full life. Following her death, her mother, Jennifer Flory, began sharing her experience with the hope that her daughter’s story helps other families prevent what happened to her family from happening to theirs. Alison was smart and outgoing with a quirky sense of humor. She was a highly empathic person who lived to help others whenever she had the chance. She had an abundance of joy and enthusiasm for life. Throughout her childhood, she played soccer and volleyball, took art Jennifer Flory classes, played the speaks at an event. violin and saxophone, loved to cook, travel, and try new things, and she loved to read books. Alison loved to live life. One of her favorite sayings was, “YOLO” (you only live once). No parent expects their child to take a turn down the wrong path. And no child expects the path they take to kill them. Alison was no different. What began as experimental use of marijuana and ecstasy as a teen gradually turned into full-fledged addiction over the

course of a few years. After experiencing a traumatic event during her sophomore year of high school, Alison turned to substance use as a means to cope with her emotional pain. During the last week of the school year, Alison and her boyfriend had an argument which led to their breaking up. The next day, Alison’s boyfriend took his own life. She could never rid her mind of the grief and guilt she felt after that day. She began taking pills she got from friends to “self-medicate” and numb her emotional pain. These pills were opiates (i.e., Vicodin, Oxycontin) and benzodiazepines (i.e., Xanax, Klonopin), both of which are highly addictive. Over the following two years, she received grief counseling, stopped taking the pills, graduated from high school, and began college at Columbia College in Chicago. Unfortunately, the roommate assigned to live with her in student housing used and dealt drugs, which made Alison fall back into the trap of addiction. She left college and returned home before the first year was over and decided to go to community college until she was ready to be on her own. She pursued graphic design and seemed to be doing okay; however, her substance use resumed and continued to have a hold on her.

Photos provided Mother Jennifer Flory (left) created the nonprofit Alison Cares Foundation in honor of her daughter, Alison Flory.

At age 23, Alison voluntarily sought treatment at a residential South Florida facility where she did amazingly well … until it was time to step down to a lower level of treatment where she had more freedom (and temptations). Over the next 18 months, she became a victim of “patient brokering” and got stuck in the “Florida shuffle.” She ended up in an unscrupulous facility operated by a man named Kenny Chatman. She was in his program for six weeks before overdosing in the sober home Kenny also operated. Her overdose was fatal. However, this is not where Alison’s story ends. Since Alison’s death, her mother,

Jennifer, has been committed to helping other parents recognize the signs of substance use and find help for those struggling with substance use disorder. Jennifer said, “My mission is to ensure that each and every person has access to resources for ethical and effective treatment of mental health and substance use disorders, which will afford them the greatest opportunity for long-term recovery,” Jennifer said. “If I knew then what I know now, my daughter may have still been alive today.” She has founded a nonprofit, Alison Cares Foundation, and a support group called “Perspectives – Family Recovery Support & Addiction Education.” They meet every Thursday at 7 p.m. via Zoom (ID 987-3218-9143, Passcode: Selfcare) and in person at Wheatland Salem Church in Naperville on the first Thursday of each month. Jennifer also works for the Ecker Center for Behavioral Health in Marketing and Fundraising. She has helped many families find their path to recovery and continues to make her daughter, Alison, proud of her and the work she does. Nobody wants to lose a child; however, Jennifer has taken her loss and turned it into Alison’s legacy. Thank you, Jennifer, for caring and fighting.

healing those whose lives have been affected by addiction

perspectives FAMILY RECOVERY SUPPORT & ADDICTION EDUCATION A safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment where people can share their struggles and learn to focus on positive changes for their own recovery. IN-PERSON MEETING 1 THURSDAY OF THE MONTH:

ZOOM MEETING EVERY THURSDAY AT 7PM:

Wheatland Salem Church, Room 149, Naperville, IL

Meeting ID - 987 3218 9143, passcode - Selfcare

All are welcome to join us on our Zoom meetings or our in-person group in Naperville. No RSVP is required, nor is full attendance or participation. We don't mind if people need to join late, leave early, and/or refrain from sharing their experience if they are not comfortable. We realize that seeking help can be scary and that trusting others can take time. Just as we aim to meet our loved ones where they are in their journey, we do the same with their family members.

ALISONC ARE S.ORG • FACEBOOK .COM/ALISONC ARE SFOUN DATION FACEBOOK .COM/GROUPS/PERSPEC TI V E SOFA D DIC TIONAN DRECOV ERY SM-CL1911043

• Accident injuries: Chiropractors can assess musculoskeletal anomalies caused by motor vehicle accidents as well as slips and falls. • Anxiety and stress: The fight or flight mechanism that is activated when a person experiences stress and anxiety can take its toll on various parts of the body. Because stress involves nerve impulses, chiropractors may be able to work primarily with the spine where these impulses originate to help release tension and nerve irritation. • Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is marked by widespread musculoskeletal pain in the joints, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues. It can be combined with temporomandibular joint syndrome, or TMJ, as well as irritable bowel syndrome, among other illnesses. Chiropractors can remove subluxations, which are misalignments of the vertebrae in the spine and joints that lead to pain responses. Chiropractic care may be an asset for pain management, as well as a way to improve overall health.

Dealing with Neck Pain, Back Pain, or Headaches?

onley Outreach Community Services has served the Kaneland Community for over 30 years. The agency originally was started by our founder, the late Bruce Conley, to provide bereavement services to grieving loved ones in the Kaneland area. Although we remain true to our roots, Conley Outreach Community Services has developed into a multifaceted social service agency providing service coordination, information and referral, a clothing closet, and limited gap

assistance to most of Western Rural Kane County. We are proud to still be providing grief support services such as adult bereavement groups and our annual Good Grief Day Camp for children. Thanks to continued assistance from INC Board and generous donations from everyday folks, we have been able to keep these wonderful services at low or no cost to those who need it most. Conley Outreach Community Services is a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization devoted to “Caring for the Heart of Community.”

For more information on getting help or giving help: Contact us at (630) 365-2880 or check out our website, www.conleyoutreach.org.

Conley Outreach Community Services has served the Kaneland Community for over 30 years. We strive to be: A CATALYST FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

A HUB FOR HUMAN SERVICES

A PLACE FOR NURTURING THE LIVES OF INDIVIDUALS, FAMILIES AND NEIGHBORHOODS

Our mission is to provide and coordinate community mental health and human service programs in rural Western Kane County by understanding community needs, creating systems of support, and collaborating with other community and faith-based partners.

--We may be able to help!-We focus on complex and chronic conditions. This allows us to offer a specialized approach to make sure Pain goes away and doesn’t come back! Our unique approach has allowed us to help HUNDREDS get lasting relief.

Call to schedule a FREE Phone consultation with Dr. DeCubellis to see if you qualify for treatment! 630-435-6461

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5157 Main St. #200, Downers Grove, IL 60515 chiropracticdownersgrove.com

Caring for the Heart of Community Conley Outreach Community Services is a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization devoted to “Caring for the Heart of Community.” We provide services and programs at no cost or for a nominal fee. SM-CL1909415

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tatistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and the United States Department of Health and Human Services reveal that as many as 1 in 5 people received prescription opioids long-term for noncancer pain in primary care settings in 2016. While opioid use for pain does not always lead to abuse of these medications, opioid addiction has become a widespread problem across North America. Chiropractic care may be one avenue to pursue as a viable alternative to pain medications. While chiropractic manipulations are most often associated with back and neck pain, there are many different benefits – some of which may surprise those unfamiliar with chiropractic care. • Migraines and headaches: Research shows spinal manipulation can be an effective way to treat migraines, tension headaches and headaches that begin in the neck.

Conley Outreach Community 21 Services is ‘caring for the heart of the community’

OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS |

Chiropractors can treat a variety of pain sources without prescriptions

n interventionist provides the reason on the family’s terms, not the addict or alcoholic’s terms. An interventionist brings all of the personalities of a family together, with all of their diverse opinions, and focuses everyone on a single solution that works on a level comfortable to them all. Jay has shown a lifelong passion and track record for making a difference. As an interventionist, he believes that recovery from addiction can be a gateway to an incredible, creative and productive life! Today’s world brings on many hardships, one of which is the paralyzing grip of addiction on a struggling loved one, which all too often contributes to severe dysfunction within the family unit. With 15 years of work in recovery, Jay recognizes the underlying issues and as an interventionist he will introduce a proactive approach, along with the necessary steps required to unite family and friends, collectively, to encourage change in a loved one. Jay’s compassion and empathy for the client and the ability to lay out a positive path for success allows him to fend off any notion of attempting recovery alone. During this time of family crisis, the transition toward recovery can be overwhelming, often derailed by the stress and fear of the unknown, especially when seeking out a quality treatment program for a loved one. Jay will provide families with a systematic

action plan for treatment and personally transport the individual safely to a predetermined treatment facility. Jay understands what it takes, having recovered from years of being chained to his own addiction with the inability to hit the “OFF” switch on his own. Miraculously, he found his way into several life-changing programs of recovery. Jay is now professionally trained in interventions and is gifted to motivate individuals to seek help for their own addiction. In addition to facilitating interventions, Jay is trained as a 24/7 Sober Companion and Recovery Coach, typically utilized for those prone to relapse. He will help clients solidify what was learned in treatment by helping them implement those tools in a new life of sobriety. Jay received BreakFREE Intervention Training with Brad Lamm and is professionally trained as a “Lay Counselor” having led spiritual recovery groups addressing such issues as: co-dependency, anger, depression, fear, resentment, and more. He also operates a men’s sober living home through his local nonprofit organization that serves the community as an outreach to awareness, prevention and recovery. “Take the first step in faith. ... You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” — Martin Luther King Jr.

Take the FIRST STEP today. Call direct: (630) 202-0726 | Email: 1st.stepnow@gmail.com

– Quick Guide –

Phone Resources When you or a loved one are seeking health for substance abuse or mental health, you can reach out to one of the following agencies. PRESENCE RESOURCE AND REFERRAL CENTER (844) 569-5200 ILLINOIS HELPLINE FOR OPIOIDS AND OTHER SUBSTANCES (833) 234-6343 NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LINE (800) 273-8255 NORTHERN KANE COUNTY CRISIS LINE (847) 697-2380 SOUTHERN KANE COUNTY CRISIS LINE (630) 966-9393

First Step Addiction Consultants, LLC Intervention & Addiction Recovery Services

An Interventionist provides the reason on the family’s terms, not the addict or alcoholic’s terms. An Interventionist brings all of the personalities of a family together, with all of their diverse opinions, and focuses everyone on a single solution that works on a level comfortable to them all.

The FIRST STEP Does Not Have to Be the Hardest! OUR SPECIALIZED ADDICTION RECOVERY SERVICES INCLUDE: • FAMILY INTERVENTION SERVICES • TREATMENT PLACEMENT CONSULTING • SAFE SOBER TRANSPORTATION • 24/7 SOBER COMPANION SERVICES • INDIVIDUALIZED RECOVERY COACHING • CASE MANAGEMENT & FAMILY SUPPORT

Call Today Jay Webb 630.202.0726

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22 An addiction interventionist’s role

Take the FIRST STEP today. Call direct: 630.202.0726 Email:1st.stepnow@gmail.com “Take the first step in faith...You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” - Martin Luther King Jr.

Point to Point is a harm reduction program committed to providing people who use drugs the resources they need to make any positive change in their life. We believe in empowering injection drug users to care about their wellbeing by offering the tools they need to inject safer. We offer fentanyl testing strips so they can know what their using, and Narcan so that they can prevent fatal overdose. Participants are met with compassion above all else, and never looked at with judgement or stigma. We believe that all drug users deserve to be treated with dignity and hope they learn to love themselves a bit more because of our services. Compassion saves lives. Love saves lives. Harm reduction saves lives. All services are free and conﬁdential. Call or text 630-492-1454 to coordinate a meeting. For more information, visit www.point2pointkane.com

Treating long-term cases may lead to more prescriptions

Continued from page 3

Detective Krysta Kaus of the Kane County Sheriff’s Office used the following resources for information in this article. n Adams, K. (2021, April 28). Rate of opioid prescriptions written for COVID-19 long-haulers prompts addiction concerns. https://www. beckershospitalreview.com/opioids/rateof-opioid-prescriptions-written-for-covid19-long-haulers-prompts-addictionconcerns.html n Al-Aly, Z., Xie, Y. & Bowe, B. Highdimensional characterization of postacute sequelae of COVID-19. Nature 594, 259–264 (2021). https://doi. org/10.1038/s41586-021-03553-9 n Centers for Disease Control and Prevention n Wamsley , L. (2021, April 22). People With Severe COVID-19 Have Higher Risk Of Long-Term Effects, Study Finds. https://www. npr.org/sections/coronavirus-liveupdates/2021/04/22/989874986/peoplewith-severe-covid-19-have-higher-risk-oflong-term-effects-study-finds

prehensive Addiction and Recov ery Act Project, according to the Kenneth Young Center website, kennethyoung.org, where he also coaches those in recovery. Pass also has a nonprofit, New Beginnings Recovery Mission, with two halfway houses in Elgin. He said he has seen where people leave prison or treatment without recovery, then pick up where they left off and die of an overdose. “I’ve seen three people die personally,” Pass said. “They left treatment after 28, 30, 30-plus Photo by Sandy Bressner days, got high and died the same day. I worked at Lutheran Social Services for five years and kept a is now nine years sober as of June diary – 94 people died just from 18. substance abuse disorder.” “Since being sober, my If you are depressed or thinking understanding of what that really about harming yourself, the is, and what my issues really were, National Suicide Prevention have evolved,” Pass said. “We are Lifeline at 800-273-8255 and so immersed in the stigma that … they’re losers, dope fiends, addicts, https://suicidepreventionlifeline. org/ is open 24 hours in English crackheads. Those labels do not and Spanish and provides free apply. These are individuals who struggle and suffer with a substance confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis abuse disorder. … Left untreated, resources for you or your loved it’s progressive and deadly.” ones and best practices for Pass works for the Kenneth professionals. Young Center, leading its Com Daryl Pass, a comprehensive addiction and recovery act project lead for Kenneth Young Center, also does work with the Kane County Drug Court helping people who have detoxed learn to live with reality.

“I often reflect on the words of Charles Taylor, a 70-year-old Black man from Aurora, in and out of custody 12 times over 50 years who said when [he] left our jail for the last time after experiencing our Recovery Pod: ‘Sheriff Hain, I never realized anyone in uniform ever cared about me until now.’ ”

RECOVERY AFTER SOBRIETY

One of the people who assists detainees once they are detoxed and receive treatment is Daryl Pass. Pass works with clients who are in Drug Court, one of the county’s specialty courts, helping them get into halfway or sober living houses. He’s also a recovery coach because it’s not enough for the clients just to be sober. Sobriety means a person is no longer using drugs but recovery means that person is learning how to live without using drugs. “If you are a dry drunk, nothing has changed – you are what you are,” Pass said, using an expression for people who sober up but don’t deal with their

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underlying problems. “But recovery – this is where I work. … When you really start understanding that it’s imperative that you live better – not perfect – but intentional in your actions to be a better person,” Pass said. “Recovery is a beautiful thing. It is transformative thinking and behavioral change. It’s a totally different way of living. ... Life is life. You’ve got to suit up.” Pass said he understands the challenges as he himself suffered from heroin abuse for 23 years and

Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

could become addicted to opiates just from this study alone. The study was done based BY DETECTIVE KRYSTA KAUS off of databases KANE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE of the U.S. Department of Recently, various news outlets have reported Veteran Affairs. that prescription drugs were being used to treat As a way long-term COVID-19 symptoms. Long COVID to combat is described by the Centers for Disease Control the opioid (CDC) as symptoms from COVID-19 that last for epidemic weeks or months. The CDC specifically says that locally, Kane the symptoms can happen to anyone who has County Sheriff’s had COVID-19, even if the illness was mild or Office – like someone didn’t initially have symptoms. Krysta Kaus many other You might be thinking this is an article about Kane County Sheriff’s Office agencies – has opioids – why are you talking about COVID-19? partnered with the Rx Abuse Leadership Institute A study published by Nature in April showed that for every 1,000 long COVID patients treated to distribute Deterra Drug Deactivation System. Deterra can be used at home to deactivate at a Veterans Affairs facility, physicians wrote unused or unwanted prescriptions. nine more prescriptions for opioids than they In 2021, the Sheriff’s Office participated in the otherwise would have. The researchers also found other medications being prescribed in addition to Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The next Take opioids were anti-anxiety and antidepressants. Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly and his colleagues examined data Back Day is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021. The Sheriff’s Office collects prescriptions collected from 73,000 people who had reportedly year-round in the collection box in the lobby at had COVID-19 but had not been hospitalized. the main entrance and has recently instituted a That means that with more opioid prescriptions soft relaunch of the A Way Out program. written, there are potentially 657 people who

OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS |

What does COVID-19 have to do with opioids?

Exposing the truth behind opioids

n the ‘90s, medical doctors were falsely lured into prescribing opioids as a treatment for pain. Aggressive marketing of the drugs downplayed the risks, and it was common for prescriptions for mild to moderate pain to be continued indefinitely. These practices led to the epidemic of today. Nearly everyone who takes opioids for an extended time becomes dependent. Over 16 million people currently suffer from an opioid use disorder. Taking medications may provide temporary relief, but they don’t address the cause of or heal your pain. Your body heals through motion, and it’s a smart idea to start with conservative care options first.

NEXT STEPS If you or someone you know is dealing with chronic pain, it’s time to connect with a practice that focuses on movement-based care like we do. We’ll show you exactly how you can find long-term relief from your pain without these dangerous medications.

BOTTOM LINE Chronic pain is a real issue for tens of millions. In many of these cases, the answer isn’t found in a pill but rather with a combination of movement-based treatments.

Find St. Charles Pain & Wellness Center online: www.stcharlespainandwellness.com or on Facebook: www.fb.com/ StCharlesPainandWellnessCenter (630) 513-7770 Source: Opioid Addiction. Stat Pearls. 2021.

Dr. Hertz is dedicated to helping as many people as possible live happier, healthier lives through chiropractic; without the use of drugs or surgery. Opioids are powerful pain killers but are highly addictive and don’t actually fix the cause of your pain. They aren’t meant to treat chronic spinal pain. They don’t help your body heal and become less effective at stopping pain the longer you take them • Masking spine pain with medications can possibly increase your risk of further injury. • Movement-based care helps your body heal and can improve your likelihood of finding long term relief. • Choosing chiropractic for spinal pain can reduce your risk of filling an opioid prescription by over 50%. How can you fix the cause of your pain, find lasting relief, and avoid these harmful medications? Start by calling us today to schedule an evaluation.

St. Charles Pain & Wellness Center

Bartlett Pain & Wellness Center

302 S 14th St. 158 Bartlett Plaza St. Charles, IL 60174 Bartlett, IL 60103 (630) 513-7770 (630) 830-2121 www.stcharlespainandwellness.com

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| OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

The following is a list of many of the services available in this area. This is not representative of all services and should not necessarily be considered as a recommendation by Shaw Media. 360 Youth Services

Transitional Housing Program 1305 W. Oswego Rd., Naperville, IL 60540 (630) 961-2992 Substance Use Disorder Education/ Prevention, General Counseling Services, Children’s/Adolescent Residential Treatment Facilities, Transitional Housing/Shelter

Administer Justice

1750 Grandstand Pl., Ste. 15, Elgin, IL 60123 (847) 844-1100 Pro Bono Legal Aid Volunteer Opportunities, General Legal Aid, Tax Preparation Assistance

Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital & Center for Addiction Medicine

Alison Cares Foundation

(630) 381-1350 (text or call) Addiction and Mental Health Resources, Overdose and Suicide Prevention, Youth and Community Education

Association for Individual Development (AID)

Behavioral Health Services 1230 N. Highland Ave., Aurora, IL 60506 (630) 859-1291 Outreach Programs, Substance Use Disorder Counseling, Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Psychiatric Case Management, Health/ Disability Related Counseling, Outpatient Mental Health Facilities

Barrington Youth & Family Services

110 S. Hager Ave., Barrington, IL 60010 (847) 381-0345 Outreach Programs, Substance Use Disorder Counseling, Sexual Assault Counseling, Marriage Counseling, Adolescent/Youth Counseling, General Counseling Services, Addictions/Substance Use Disorder Support Groups, Life Coaching, Diversion Programs

Behavioral Services Center

188 Industrial Dr., Ste. 100, Elmhurst, IL 60126 (847) 673-8577 Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs, DUI Offender Programs, Psychiatric Medication Monitoring

Breaking Free, Inc.

120 Gale St., Aurora, IL 60506 (630) 897-1003 Comprehensive Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Substance Use Disorder Education/Prevention, DUI Offender Programs

Latino Treatment Center

Christ Community Church -

Leyden Family Service & Mental Health Center - Substance Abuse Programs

1250 Executive Pl., #301, Geneva, IL 60134 (630) 402-0144 Care Addiction Center provides compassionate, confidential & professional treatment for adults suffering from alcohol & substance abuse. Community Programs 37W100 Bolcom Rd., St. Charles, IL 60175 (630) 485-3300 Outreach Programs, Volunteer Mobilization Events

Conley Outreach Community Services PO Box 931, Elburn, IL 60119 (630) 365-2880 Outreach Programs, Bereavement Counseling, Peer Counseling, Parent Support Groups, Bereavement Support Groups

Ecker Center for Mental Health

1845 Grandstand Pl., Elgin, IL 60123 (847) 695-0484 Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Clinical Psychiatric Evaluation, Psychiatric Disorder Counseling, Outpatient Mental Health Facilities, Supportive Housing

Families Anonymous, Inc.

701 Lee St., Ste. 670, Des Plaines, IL 60016 (847) 294-5877 Families/Friends of Individuals With a Drug Use Disorder Support Groups, Families/ Friends of Individuals With an Alcohol Use Disorder Support Groups

Family Guidance Center

751 Aurora Ave., Aurora, IL 60505 (630) 801-0017 Medication Assisted Maintenance Treatment for Opioid Use Disorders, Comprehensive Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Drug Use Disorder Education/ Prevention, Inpatient Drug Detoxification

First Baptist Counseling Services

1735 W. Highland Ave., Elgin, IL 60123 (847) 695-8710 General Counseling Services, Faith Based Counseling

Gateway Foundation

400 Mercy Ln., Aurora, IL 60506 (877) 505-4673 Residential Substance Use Disorder Treatment Facilities, Comprehensive Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment, DUI Offender Programs, General Counseling Services

Hope for Tomorrow, Inc.

479 N. Lake St., Aurora, IL 60506 (866) 301-4673 Recovery Homes/Halfway Houses, Residences for People With Chronic Substance Use Disorders, Relapse Prevention Programs, Substance Use Disorder Counseling, Gambling Addiction Counseling/Treatment

54 S. Grove Ave., Elgin, IL 60120 (847) 695-9155 Substance Use Disorder Counseling, DUI Offender Programs, General Assessment for Substance Use Disorders

10001 Grand Ave., Franklin Park, IL 60131 (847) 451-0330 Relapse Prevention Programs, Residential Substance Use Disorder Treatment Facilities, Comprehensive Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment, DUI Offender Programs, Inpatient Drug Detoxification, Gambling Addiction Counseling/Treatment, Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Services, Gambling Self Exclusion Programs

Lighthouse Recovery

210 S. 5th St., Ste. 10, St. Charles, IL 60174 630-940-2468 Lighthouse Recovery is an outpatient substance abuse treatment program designed to facilitate the changes needed for lasting recovery.

Linden Oaks Behavioral Health at Edward Hospital

852 S. West St., Naperville, IL 60540 (630) 305-5027 Inpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment Facilities, Comprehensive Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Addiction Psychiatry, Depression Screening, Psychiatric Inpatient Units

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois

Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse Services - Elgin 675 Varsity Dr., Elgin, IL 60120 (847) 741-2600 Comprehensive Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Addictions/Substance Use Disorder Support Groups

Normandy House Sober Living

Des Plaines, IL 60017 (847) 227-0520 Normandy House Sober Living offers a nuturing home environment. Early recovery is a time to focus on creating a new life, a time to build skills to prevent relapse

Prairie State Legal Services - Kane,

DeKalb & Kendall Counties; Fox Valley Office 1024 W. Main St., Saint Charles, IL 60174 (630) 232-9415 Pro Bono Legal Aid Volunteer Opportunities, General Legal Aid

Presence Mercy Medical Center - Aurora 1325 N. Highland Ave., Aurora, IL 60506 (630) 859-2222 Medical Libraries, Inpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment Facilities, Comprehensive Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Outpatient Mental Health Facilities, Inpatient Mental Health Facilities, Mental Health Related Support Groups, Health/Disability Related Support Groups, Addictions/Substance Use Disorder Support Groups, Support Groups, Wellness Programs

Renz Addiction Counseling Center -

Substance Abuse Counseling Two American Way; Elgin Outpatient Office Elgin, IL 60120; (847) 742-3545 Perinatal Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Comprehensive Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment, DUI Offender Programs, Gambling Addiction Counseling/Treatment, Employee Assistance Programs

Rosecrance Health Network

1021 N. Mulford Road Corp. Office - Rockford, IL 61107 (888) 928-5278 Mental Health Assessment and Treatment, Crisis Residential Treatment, Mental Health Evaluation, Forensic Mental Health Evaluation, Mental Health Screening, Detoxification, Alcohol Use Disorder Education/Prevention, Drug Use Disorder Education/Prevention, Comprehensive Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Inpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment Facilities, Recovery Homes/ Halfway Houses

Serenity House

891 S. Rohlwing Rd., Addison, IL 60101 630-620-6616 Extended residential. Outpatient, DUI services, HIV program

SHARE Program

1776 Moon Lake Blvd. Hoffman Estates, IL 60169 (847) 882-4181 Supportive Substance Use Disorder Services, Detoxification, Gambling Addiction Counseling/Treatment

Spring Hill Counseling Services

600 Spring Hill Ring Rd., Ste. 106 Dundee, IL 60118 (630) 202-3610 Addiction Psychiatry, Depression Screening, Anxiety Disorders Screening, Bereavement Counseling, Anger Management, Social Development

Tools for Life

35 S. Stolp Ave., Aurora, IL 60506 (630) 906-1200 Comprehensive Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Substance Use Disorder Education/Prevention, DUI Offender Programs, Drug/Alcohol Testing

Wayside Cross Ministries, Inc.

215 E. New York St. Aurora, IL 60505 (630) 892-4239 Faith -based 6-month residential for men and women

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1650 Moonlake Blvd., Hoffman Estates, IL 60169 (800) 432-5005 Inpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment Facilities, Comprehensive Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment, DUI Offender Programs, General Mental Health Information/Education, Psychiatric Services, Outpatient Mental Health Facilities, Psychiatric Hospitals

Care Addiction Center

OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS |

Resource Guide

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| OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

Ecker Center hosts annual Overdose Awareness Day Memorial Event

cker Center for Behavioral Health will present their Annual Overdose Awareness Day Memorial Event at the Center’s Renz Office – Serenity Pond, Two American Way, Elgin, on Tuesday, August 31st beginning at 7:00 PM. Fatal drug overdoses have increased for the 11th consecutive year, rising nearly 30% during the pandemic. There were a record 93,000 drug overdose deaths in 2020 alone. In association with International Overdose Awareness Day, Ecker Center for Behavioral Health is hosting a memorial event to remember those who have died due to drug overdose. Together, attendees will stand in solidarity to shed light on the overdose crisis, remember the lives lost to overdose, and support those bearing the burden of grief. All are welcome to attend the free event. Personalized memorial signs are being created to honor loved ones and will be displayed along Ecker’s Serenity Path for viewing throughout the event. In addition, an overdose tribute video will be posted on Ecker’s website for those unable to attend the event in-person. If you would like your loved one to be included in the memorial display, please send their name and photo to Jennifer at jflory@eckercenter.org by August 29, 2021. The memorial will include speakers representing

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people who have experienced the loss of a loved one to an overdose, as well as overdose survivors who are using their experience to help others. The names of loved ones will be read aloud, followed by a candlelight vigil and an invitation to walk around the Serenity Path to view the memorial signs. Overdose reversal training and free Narcan kits will be available for those interested. “The ripple effect that individuals and families experience as a result of a death due to an overdose is devastating,” CEO Daphne Sandouka said. “Oftentimes, families who have lost a loved one face social and moral stigmas in addition to feelings of anger, helplessness, guilt, and shame. Moreover, individuals struggling with substance use disorder may avoid seeking help because of the stigma and shame. The Ecker Center is committed to prevention, education, and intervention with no judgment.” For more information about Ecker Center for Behavioral Health, please visit our website at www.eckercenter.org.

Social activities boost both mental and physical health

For over 60 years, the St. Charles Bowl has been a Fox Valley tradition for affordable family-friendly fun and entertainment for the entire community. • Birthday Parties • Corporate Events • Fundraisers • Bumper Bowling • Cosmic Bowling • Leagues & Tournaments Mention this ad to receive a (buy one get one free)

BOGO

up to 3 games. Expires 11/20/21 Not valid with any other offers.

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St. Charles Bowl 2520 W. Main St., St. Charles (630) 584-9400 • www.stcharlesbowl.com

ounded in 1967, TriCity Family Services is a private, not-for-profit, community mental health center serving Central and Southern Kane Counties. Counseling is at the core of our work. Our services are designed to address a widerange of mental health disorders that destabilize families and prevent individuals from leading productive, satisfying lives. Integral to our mission is a commitment to making programs and services affordable to area

residents in need, particularly those who are uninsured, underinsured, or cannot otherwise afford mental health care. Operating under a sliding fee scale ensures that no one is denied services based on inability to pay. In order to meet the growing needs of this community during a global pandemic, TriCity Family Services expanded psychiatric services and medication monitoring. We also now offer hybrid counseling, allowing both in-person and telehealth services.

If you or someone you know is seeking help, please reach out. Our main office is in Geneva, 1120 Randall Court, and our satellite is located in St. Charles. To reach us by phone, call 630.232.1070, or visit us on the web at tricityfamilyservices.org.

Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

s adults grow older, daily responsibilities at home and work can make it difficult to stay connected to friends. People who do not routinely socialize, especially those who do not have a spouse or partner, can experience loneliness. When AARP surveyed adults age 45 and older about loneliness, more than one-third of respondents were categorized as lonely. That’s alarming, as loneliness is considered a significant predictor of poor mental and physical health. Rates of loneliness were highest among respondents between the ages of 45 and 49. Improving social connections,

getting out more and making friends are excellent ways to boost one’s mental and physical well-being. Start off by spending more time around people who share similar interests. Participate in an adult sports league, volunteer at church, attend wine tastings or take an art course. Be optimistic and try new things when people you meet suggest them. Openness to new experiences will help you get closer to people and fill up your social calendar. You don’t have to like everything you try, but finding new hobbies or interests can pave the way to new friendships. Don’t be afraid to talk to new people. Make a good first impression by being confident and taking the lead. It is fun and healthy to be social and make new friends. New opportunities can be the spice of life.

OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS |

How to socialize more Receive mental help at and make new friends TriCity Family Services

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The threat of

ANXIETY & DEPRESSION among college students

ollege provides many young people with their first taste of independence, and that newfound freedom can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when it’s coupled with academic challenges that are much more rigorous than they were in high school. According to data from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 80% of college students feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities as a student. NAMI data also indicates that 50% of college students rate their mental health as below average or poor. Anxiety and depression are two mental health issues that affect many college students as they try to juggle the various demands associated with being students. Anyone who suspects they or a student they know is experiencing either of these issues should reach out to a mental health professional immediately.

found that the rate of depression among college students has increased since the onset of the pandemic. Though students typically have readily available access to mental health professionals on campus, that access has been compromised during the pandemic as students, counselors and educators learn and work remotely. College mental health counselors were available via DEPRESSION video conferencing during the pandemic, Depression among college students may but students may not be aware of that, while have been exacerbated during the COVID-19 others might be uncomfortable discussing pandemic. A 2020 survey conducted by the their mental health in dorm rooms or Healthy Minds Network in collaboration with apartments they share with fellow students. the American College Health Association Symptoms of depression include feelings of

sadness or hopelessness, loss of motivation, sleeplessness, trouble concentrating, changes in appetite and body weight, and loss of interest in social activities.

ANXIETY

A 2017 report from Penn State University’s Center for Collegiate Mental Health found that anxiety is one of the two most common reasons college students seek mental health services (the other is depression). In fact, the Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that 13% of college students have been diagnosed with a mental health condition linked to anxiety. Anxiety among college students can be triggered by social and/or academic pressures. Being in constant fear, experiencing frequent headaches, exhibiting shortness of breath, difficulty concentrating, constant feelings of stress or irritability, irregular heartbeat, and muscle pain or tension are some symptoms associated with anxiety. Help is available to students dealing with depression or anxiety. Mental health professionals on campus can be invaluable resources as students try to overcome issues that can affect their quality of life.

Stress is up, but treatment is not

n GET ENOUGH SLEEP. According to the Primary Care Collaborative, a not-forprofit member organization dedicated to advancing an effective and efficient health system, sleep and mental health are intimately related. Sleep loss can contribute to emotional instability. The amygdala is the part of the brain responsible for humans’ emotional responses. When an individual does not get enough sleep, his or her amygdala goes into overdrive, leading to more intense emotional reactions. The prefrontal cortex is another part of the brain that needs sufficient sleep to function properly. Without it, the prefrontal cortex, which is integral to impulse control, cannot function properly. Adults can speak with their physicians about how much sleep they should be getting each night. Those needs change as individuals age. n EAT A BALANCED DIET. A balanced, healthy diet doesn’t just benefit the waistline. According to the ADAA, a balanced diet that includes protein, healthy non-saturated fats, fiber, and some simple carbohydrates can reduce the likelihood that mental health issues like fatigue, difficulty concentrating and irritability will arise during the day. n VOLUNTEER IN YOUR COMMUNITY. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Happiness Studies found that people who volunteered in the past were more satisfied with their lives and rated their overall health as much better than people who didn’t volunteer. Perhaps the most noteworthy finding in the study was that people who began volunteering with lower levels of well-being tended to get the biggest boost from volunteering. Volunteering provides opportunities to socialize, which can help ward off the loneliness that can sometimes contribute to anxiety and depression.

Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

The results of the study are supported by data from IngenioRx, a pharmacy benefits manager. While the overall use for depression medications was up in 2020, much of that increase is due to existing users being better he United States reported more mental about taking their medications as prescribed, health stress in 2020, but there was not according to IngenioRx medication data. New users of these medications increased at the a corresponding increase in people same rate as 2019. seeking mental health treatment, “It’s not surprising that the COVID-19 according to the inaugural State of the pandemic has affected people’s mental Nation’s Mental Health report. health,” commented Neil Leibowitz, MD, JD, However, there were two conditions for Chief Medical Officer, Behavioral Health, at which diagnoses and treatment grew in 2020: Beacon Health Options, a leading behavioral anxiety and PTSD for adults. These findings health services company. “However, because support the results of a recent study showing people aren’t seeking services at a rate we that four out of 10 U.S. adults reported symptoms of anxiety or depression in 2020, up would expect them to, it’s a reminder that we all need to understand what people are going from one in 10 in 2019. through and do what we can to make sure The report’s findings, based on behavioral they get care.” health plan claims from 27 million people Many healthcare professionals think the in the United States, reflect the pandemic pandemic will affect our nation’s mental disconnect between feeling stressed and health for years to come. Nearly three out depressed and being diagnosed and seeking of four mental health specialists and primary treatment. care doctors estimate that the mental health Two groups had the largest overall effects from the pandemic will last up to three downturn: younger children and older adults. years or longer, according to an Anthem Inc.One possible reason for the drop in children’s commissioned survey. diagnoses is that they spent less time with The pandemic has highlighted the teachers, coaches and other mentors during the pandemic. The Silent Generation - people importance of mental health for doctors and patients alike. Nine out of 10 of surveyed 75 and older - may not have used telehealth services as much as other groups and delayed providers reported they are more aware of their patients’ mental health challenges. getting healthcare appointments. Also, 70% said their patients have been more The State of the Nation’s Mental Health willing to bring up mental health issues during report showed the following drops in 2020 appointments. rates for those treated for mental health “There is no doubt that 2020 was the diagnoses compared to those treated in 2019: most difficult of years,” said Dr. Leibowitz. n 10% overall drop for young children “However, the year presented us with an n 5 % overall drop for adolescents opportunity. This reported uptick in awareness n 5 % overall drop for adults older than 75 shows promise that attitudes concerning n 13 % drop for young children diagnosed mental health are changing. I don’t think we with ADHD have yet to see the end to mental health n 8 % drop for adolescents diagnosed with stigma, but assuming this data reflects a ADHD larger national trend, 2020 led us closer to an n 8 % drop in adults older than 75 openness around discussing mental health.” diagnosed with dementia n 3 % drop for both Baby Boomers and (BPT) adults older than 75 diagnosed for depression

Pandemic could affect mental health for years, doctors predict

When attempting to improve longterm health, it’s important that people emphasize mental health as much as they do their physical health. The Anxiety & Depression Association of America notes the importance and effectiveness of preventive efforts in relation to depression and anxiety. In regard to mental health, prevention efforts can function in much the same way that exercise serves physical health. Routine exercise helps people reduce their risk for various conditions and diseases. Preventive efforts designed to improve mental health can significantly reduce a person’s risk for anxiety and depression. Various strategies can be utilized to promote mental health, and these three are simple and highly effective.

OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS |

3 STRATEGIES TO PROTECT MENTAL HEALTH

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| OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

Providing help for someone with suicidal thoughts

hose close to people who have taken their own lives often wonder what they could have done to help. Suicide is a public health problem that affects people from all walks of life. Various factors can contribute to thoughs of suicide, and promoting supportive behaviors and improving education can reduce the numbers of suicides and suicide attempts. Consider these statistics, courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Government of Canada. n Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States. n More than 47,500 Americans took their own lives in 2019. n In 2019, 12 million American adults seriously thought about suicide, and 1.4 million made an attempt. n More than 10 Canadians die by suicide every day. n Suicide rates are on the rise in the United States, increasing by 33 percent since 1999. n For every death by suicide, at least seven to 10 survivors are significantly affected by the loss. While certain instances of suicide seemingly come out of the blue, there are certain warning signs that may be present. Recognizing these signs can help people get prompt assistance. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that the following are some signs that a person may be having suicidal thoughts. n Talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill themselves. n Mentioning feelings of hopelessness or indicating there is no reason to live. n Speaking of great guilt or shame. n Acting very anxious or agitated. n Displaying feelings of unbearable emotional or physical pain. n Searching for legal ways of killing oneself. n Taking great risks that could lead to death. n Using alcohol or drugs more often. n Saying goodbye to family or friends and giving away important possessions. n Displaying extreme mood swings. Suicidal thoughts are an emergency and taking action can save lives and prevent injuries. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration says if a person believes someone may be thinking about suicide the following actions should be taken. n Call 911, if danger for self-harm is imminent. n Ask the person if he or she is thinking about suicide. Listen without judgment. n Remove any objects that could be used in a suicide attempt. n Stay with the person until additional help arrives. n Call SAMHSA’s National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK or text the Crisis Text Line’s number (741741).

HELP CLOSE TO HOME See page 25 for local resources to find help with mental health and substance abuse.

How to find

mental health resources

for children and families

edicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) offer free or low-cost health coverage for children and teens up to age 19. Coverage includes check-ups and regular doctor visits, immunizations, emergency care, dentist visits, eye exams and other care that children may need, including mental and behavioral health services. Children as young as 2 can be diagnosed with a mental disorder. Mental disorders among children are described as serious changes in the way children typically learn, behave or handle their emotions, which cause distress and problems getting through the day. Some examples of childhood mental disorders include attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety and depression. Mental health issues can shape how a child behaves and learns. And these issues can make managing emotions more difficult for the child. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the number of children experiencing mental health disorders. Before COVID-19, 1 in 6 kids in the U.S. from 2 to 8 years of age had been diagnosed with a mental disorder, developmental disorder or behavioral disorder, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A Harvard University study found that children experienced more clinically significant symptoms of anxiety, depression, hyperactivity and inattention between November 2020 and January 2021. The good news is that once diagnosed, mental disorders can be treated and managed. There are resources available to help children and families who may need mental health support. Medicaid and CHIP coverage includes mental and behavioral health screenings and services delivered in-person or via telehealth.

Eligibility is dependent on household size and income, and varies by state. On average, children in a family of four earning up to $50,000 a year or more may qualify for Medicaid or CHIP. Families can enroll in these programs at any time throughout the year. COVID-19 has negatively impacted children’s mental health by changing their routines, how they learn and how they socialize, according to the CDC. Medicaid, CHIP or other insurance can help children access mental health support services to help them through these times.

CATCH UP ON MISSED CARE

Now is also a good time to catch up on care and necessary preventive services your child may have missed because of COVID-19, like vaccinations, routine childhood screenings and well-child visits. With Medicaid and CHIP coverage, parents can schedule preventive visits for their children to make sure that children are growing and developing normally, including meeting important developmental milestones. Regular dental check-ups and vision screenings are also essential to a child’s overall health. It is especially important for school-aged children to get caught up on missed care, so they are ready for in-person learning. Your provider will tell you how to be safe and how to get important care to protect your child’s health now and for the future. To learn more about Medicaid and CHIP, visit InsureKidsNow.gov or call 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669) to speak with an enrollment specialist. (BPT) Information provided by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.

Addiction is a disease, and it should be treated as such NATE LANTHRUM, CADC

CLINICAL DIRECTOR, LIGHTHOUSE RECOVERY

love and support these individuals, who are often at the lowest point in their lives. Compassionate care requires access to medication assisted treatment (“MAT”) for all individuals who wish to explore that as an option, and harm reduction services for those who are not yet ready for treatment. Local organizations like Point to Point, founded by Lyndsay Hartman, have employed harm reduction strategies to benefit our community by providing access to clean needles, fentanyl testing strips, and free Narcan. Compassionate care also requires that we not judge those receiving harm reduction services, and that we recognize these methods for their undisputed value in saving lives, reducing crime, and preventing disease. Without question, compassionate care requires treatment for both the insured and the uninsured. Unfortunately, in certain parts of this country, addiction treatment has become a predatory and financially lucrative business that only focuses on “optimal payers” or fully insured clients. We, as treatment providers, must do better to force change in our own industry and increase access to care for statesponsored insurance clients, uninsured clients, and the homeless. We have our heads buried firmly up our pocketbooks if we believe that only providing treatment to the insured population will even come close to addressing the urgent needs of this current national crisis. Most importantly, compassion requires our introspection. We must look inside ourselves and change the way we think, and talk, and feel, about addiction. We need Thomas Merton’s wisdom now more than ever. Our business is to care, treat without discrimination or judgement, and to love. Only then can we work together, compassionately, to help our struggling brothers and sisters – no matter their illness.

Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

“Our job is to love others without stopping to inquire whether or not they are worthy. That is not our business and, in fact, it is nobody’s business. What we are asked to do is to love, and this love itself will render both ourselves and our neighbors worthy.” – Thomas Merton Many of us have family or friends struggling with diabetes, hypertension, or asthma. Some suffer from cancer, perhaps caused by years of poor diet or smoking. Their doctors establish a treatment regimen, but our loved ones struggle to adhere to the plan, and in some instances, fail to comply with recommendations to keep them healthy. Unfortunately, this is common: as many as 40-50% of medical patients with any type of complex disease management fail to adhere to treatment recommendations. Nonadherence to recommendations carries a huge economic burden, and in the U.S. alone, related hospitalization costs are estimated at $13.35 billion annually. This contributes to worsening health outcomes, and as many as 125,000 preventable deaths per year. Would you give up on these individuals if they struggle with their treatment plan? Would a patient’s medical team discharge their patients due to noncompliance? Replace any of those illnesses with the disease of addiction. Your loved one is struggling with alcoholism, heroin addiction, or prescription pill addiction. Would you treat them differently? Would their need for care depend on how their addiction developed in the first place? Should we ignore the wisdom and compassion of Thomas Merton, and only help some, while ignoring others? Some might see this as an irrational comparison. However, as with illnesses like hypertension or diabetes,

addiction is a disease with physiological and behavioral components affecting onset and a patient’s successful recovery. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, these illnesses have the same, or greater, “relapse” rates as addiction. For nearly seventy years, the American Medical Association has classified alcoholism as an “illness,” and in 1987, classified addiction as a “disease.” These steps, though important, have still not done enough to change our community’s perception of who an addicted person is, how their lives became unmanageable, and how compassionate care is just as important for them as for your loved one who suffers from diabetes or hypertension. Compassionate treatment of people with addiction should be the rule, not the exception. It requires continued care, repeated treatment attempts, and adjustments to treatment plans. It requires us to understand that setbacks and relapses may occur, and that we should continue to

OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS |

The Case for Compassion

Shaw Media • Thursday-Friday, August 26-27, 2021

| OPIOID & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

SERVICES PROVIDED

• Early Intervention and Risk Education • Intensive Outpatient • Outpatient • Medication Assisted Treatment • Individual and Family Therapy • DUI Services (Evaluations, Risk Education and Counseling) • Secretary of State Evaluations Using evidence based practices, Lighthouse Recovery offers a path to wellness for the prevention of and recovery from substance use and related issues for individuals and families in our community. Lighthouse Recovery is licensed by the State of Illinois, Department off Human H Services, S i Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery

210 S. 5th Street, Suite 10 St. Charles, IL 60174 Lighthouse Recovery, Inc. has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval

Please call to schedule a free initial consultation Pl i SM-CL1635048

(630) 940-2468 • lighthouserecoveryinc.com