January is Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month

County Behavioral Wellness Highlights Local Treatment and Recovery Resources

This January, the U.S. Department of Health and Human  Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is leading a  nationwide observance of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Treatment Month, an effort to raise  awareness about the importance of treatment, recovery supports, and the many pathways to  healing. 

Substance use disorders affect millions of individuals and families across the country. According  to SAMHSA’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health, an estimated 48.4 million people aged  12 or older experienced a substance use disorder in the past year. Despite the prevalence of  SUD, only about one in five people who needed treatment received it, underscoring the need to  reduce barriers and expand awareness of available services. 

SUD Treatment Month aims to: 

• Encourage individuals who may be contemplating or seeking help 
• Support practitioners providing or considering treatment for substance use disorders 
• Educate and empower friends, family members, and loved ones supporting someone in  recovery 

“Treatment works, and recovery is possible,” said Melissa Wilkins, Branch Chief of Alcohol and  Drug Programs with the Department of Behavioral Wellness. “By increasing awareness and  access to services, we can help individuals take that first step toward recovery and ensure they  are supported every step of the way.” 

Locally, the Department of Behavioral Wellness offers a 24/7 Access Line that can be called by  anyone seeking information, confidential support or help during a crisis. The Access Line also  provides screening and referrals to substance use disorder (SUD) treatment providers for  community members with Medi-Cal. This service serves as a critical entry point for individuals  and families seeking guidance and connection to care and can be reached at 888-868-1649.  Community members with private insurance, seeking non urgent care for substance use  disorders, should contact their insurance member services. This information can typically be  found on the back of your insurance card. 

January is Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month 

Throughout SUD Treatment Month, SAMHSA and local partners are emphasizing: 

• The effectiveness of evidence-based treatment, including medications for substance use  disorders 
• The importance of screening, early intervention, and timely access to care • The role of supportive networks in sustaining recovery 

Community members are encouraged to learn more, share resources, and help spread  messages of hope and recovery. Every conversation and connection can make a difference— and may help save a life. To learn more about the benefits associated with treatment and local  resources, visit https://opioidsafetysb.org/ . 

To learn more about the Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness, visit  www.countyofsb.org/behavioral-wellness. The Behavioral Wellness 24/7 Access Line can be  reached at (888) 868-1649.