Oregon's Battle Against Addiction: Mike Marshall's Vision for Change
It's costing the taxpayers so much money not to fix this problem. And you said of the alcohol sold Today is, according to The Oregon Health Authority like more than half, and I think like Three Quarters or more of the hospitalizations relative to alcohol, um, are as a consequence of someone binge drinking.
What happens when a state ranks near the top for addiction rates but falls woefully short in treatment access? Mike Marshall, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Oregon Recovers, joins Erik Kilgore in this eye-opening episode of 'Henry's Uncle' to shed light on this critical issue. Mike's journey from substance abuse to sobriety offers a unique perspective on the systemic challenges faced by those battling addiction in Oregon.
He talks candidly about his own struggles and the privilege that allowed him to access treatment—an opportunity not afforded to many others in the state. Mike shares alarming statistics: Oregon has the third-highest addiction rate in the country but is almost dead last in terms of treatment availability. He believes that addiction professionals, including doctors, harm reductionists, and police officers, are undervalued and overworked.
These groups must unite to form a coalition capable of delivering world-class prevention, treatment, and recovery support services to Oregonians in need. Oregon Recovers aims to create a comprehensive strategic plan to offer recovery pathways even to those living on the streets. However, this ambitious goal requires strong political backing.
Mike calls for legislators and the governor to raise the price of alcohol, a major contributor to the state's addiction problem, and to develop a deeper understanding of addiction at the highest levels of government. Breaking the stigma surrounding addiction is another key focus for Mike. He stresses that addiction is a medical condition, not a moral failing, and emphasizes the importance of asking for help.
He also highlights the need for doctors to discuss addiction prevention and treatment with parents. According to Mike, building an effective system isn't just about directing people to the right treatment but also helping them understand which system to turn to. Mike's vision extends beyond just creating resources; he believes in fostering a community where those in recovery can connect with others who share their experiences.
Whether through in-person meetings or online platforms, having a variety of support options is crucial. Mike Marshall's work with Oregon Recovers offers hope and actionable solutions for tackling addiction in Oregon. Tune in to this compelling episode of 'Henry's Uncle' to learn more about his journey and his mission to transform the state's approach to addiction recovery.