LT. GOVERNOR ENCOURAGES SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT

September 6 - Lt. Governor Aiona held a news conference in the rotunda of the State Capitol to announce a month-long focus on the gains made by residents seeking treatment for alcohol and drug addiction across Hawai`i.

With more than 100 advocates in attendance, the Lt. Governor highlighted treatment providers and support groups that have played a critical role in the Administration's efforts to erase the stigma associated with getting treatment for substance abuse.

"Substance abuse and chemical dependency continue to pose serious challenges for our communities, as the effects of the mental and physical illnesses inflicted by substance abuse not only affect individuals, but also families, workplaces, schools and neighborhoods," Lt. Governor Aiona said.

As part of the awareness effort, Lt. Governor Aiona and Governor Linda Lingle proclaimed September 2007 as "Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month" in Hawai`i, where the latest data show 9.3 percent of adults over age 18 need treatment.

In making the announcement, Lt. Governor Aiona recognized four treatment providers as examples of the breadth of successful programs catering to Hawai`i residents with substance abuse disorders.

Among them were the Salvations Army Family Treatment services, which provides free service to women who are either pregnant or have an infant; Ho`omau Ke Ola, which primarily serves Native Hawaiian adults; Celebrate Recovery, a faith-based program consisting of more than 10 churches; and Po`ailani Inc., which serves adults who are simultaneously battling mental health and substance-abuse issues.

The latest study from the Office of National Drug Control Policy shows more Hawai`i residents are seeking treatment for substance abuse. According to the study released in April, there were 6,805 admissions to drug/alcohol treatment centers across the state in 2005, up 17 percent from 5,819 a year earlier.

"It's no secret that many adults have gone untreated because they are too ashamed to tell friends or family," Lt. Governor Aiona said. "Our outreach is clearly about advocating early and consistent support for appropriate treatment that will allow our people recovering from alcohol and drug addiction to manage the problem over time."