The Minnesota Legislature just had one of its most impactful sessions in memory, with a historic surplus leading to a wide variety of investments that will improve lives across the state. Among those investments is funding that will combat addiction through a variety of prevention, harm-reduction, and treatment-related initiatives. At the Minnesota Department of Human …
About 22% of Minnesotans, regardless of their own participation in gambling, have been negatively affected by the gambling behaviors of others. Problem gambling is not simply a bad habit: It’s an addiction that isolates people and leaves them feeling despondent and hopeless. Problem gambling affects families and communities through unemployment, loss of housing, and more. …
Substance use disorder and the rapid rise in overdose deaths are among the most urgent issues facing our state. To save more lives and help communities heal, we must work together. That is why I’m particularly excited about an upcoming summit here in Minnesota. In January, several partners will host the SUD Shared Solutions Summit, …
Drug and alcohol addictions are life-altering conditions with severe ramifications. With over half a million Minnesotans battling a substance use disorder, timely access to effective treatment remains crucial. In 2021, less than half the people in the state with a substance use disorder received treatment. Reasons for not getting treatment vary from person to person, …
The Red Lake Nation has transformed its approach to human services, adapting the services to the people instead of the other way around. It’s making a difference. Red Lake Nation’s new human services program, Ombimindwaa Gidinawemaaganinaadog (“Uplifting Our Relatives”), is based on the Anishinaabe language, culture, traditions, beliefs and values. Intergenerational family wellness is the …
If you watched football this past season, you’re likely aware of the growing presence of sports betting culture. Pre-game segments where the hosts give gambling tips. Point spreads displayed next to the score. Advertisements for online sportsbooks during every commercial break. Three years after the Supreme Court ruled that states could allow legal sports betting, …
For many, the holiday season is a time of cheer, generosity and bonding with family. For some, it’s a series of triggers that can threaten their recovery and mental health. A recent study by the National Alliance on Mental Illness showed that for 64% of people with mental illness, the holidays make their conditions worse. …
People in long-term recovery know the drill. They have been down. They got up. And they’re staying up. With some training and supervision, they can share their experience, understanding and reassurance with others who are recovering from substance use disorder. In fact, they may be able to help others become ready and willing to seek …
Traditional healing is a relatively new program based on well-established “tried and tested” methods. The nature of traditional healing is based upon knowledge and sacred ceremonies passed through the generations, carefully taught, and intrinsically linked to the respect of the communities. The Minnesota Department of Human Services’ Traditional Healing for Native Communities program, which is …
Problem gambling negatively affects individuals, families, and communities in Minnesota. The behavior patterns associated with problem gambling compromise activities of daily living such as relationships, education and vocational opportunities, personal and financial well-being, substance use, emotional stability, physical health, and housing. Problem gambling also impacts families and other loved ones. It contributes to chaos and …
