There’s no doubt that our communities need to become more educated on the major costs of addiction – and on top of this, family members in our community need to get all the information they can on symptoms that a loved one is struggling. The sooner we seek help – or encourage those around us to seek help – the less damage that is likely to be caused by this dangerous disease. To aid this cause, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has started a traveling exhibit titled, “Drugs: Costs & Consequences” that will serve as an education base for people all over the United States – and hopefully, to spark awareness on how important it is so seek help when addiction is present.
According to the Albuquerque Journal in 2018, the traveling exhibit is starting off in New Mexico – and will endure a 9-month long run that also serves to combat the cycle of addiction and violence that rises from drug cartels, violent gangs and prescription opioid and heroin abuse. Wallet Hub conducted a study in 2018 and New Mexico was number 6 on the list; thus, it would make sense that the exhibit would start off in Albuquerque. Margie Marino, director of the Albuquerque Museum, isn’t surprised by this either. She stated,
“We hope to provide a cathartic event for people to have a conversation about about drug use in New Mexico.”
The DEA-run program was partially funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), with the DEA funding most of the project. Overall, the traveling exhibit will be broken down into 3 categories:
- “The Cost of Drugs”
- “Drugs and the Body”
- “Drugs and the Environment”
- “Breaking the Cycle”
Unfortunately, many people are still very unaware of just how dangerous drugs – and getting involved with the production and distribution of them – can be. The aim here is to inspire people to take a stand against addiction – and to speak up when a loved one is beginning to show signs of a substance use disorder (SUD).
If you or a loved one are ready to seek the help you need, speak with someone from Cumberland Heights today. Your life matters – and now is the time to begin your healing journey.
Cumberland Heights is a nonprofit alcohol and drug-addiction treatment center located on the banks of the Cumberland river in Nashville, Tennessee. On a sprawling 177-acre campus, we are made up of 2 12-Step immersion campuses, 12 outpatient recovery centers and 4 sober living homes. We believe that each person has a unique story to tell – and that’s why we always put the patient first.
