Healthy Minds for Lincoln County joins organizations across the state to recognize Nov. 30 as Methamphetamine Awareness Day.
Marshfield Clinic Health System, Northwoods Coalition, and Alliance for Wisconsin Youth in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Justice and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services encourage organizations and individuals to take action on KNOW METH AWARENESS DAY. This day is an opportunity for everyone in Wisconsin to learn more about the dangers of methamphetamine use and addiction, and what actions can be taken to prevent it.
Meth is becoming more prevalent in Wisconsin and KNOW METH AWARENESS DAY allows the community to work together to help fight this growing epidemic. From 2011 to 2016, meth availability in Wisconsin increased 250% according to the 2016 Wisconsin Methamphetamine Study. In Lincoln County, meth cases increased from a total of 26 during 2010-2012 to 77 during 2014 -2016, according to the Wisconsin Department of Justice, Wisconsin State Crime Lab.
“Our goal is to encourage people to talk to their children and family members about the risks and dangers of meth use and to get involved by supporting Healthy Minds for Lincoln County in taking action to prevent meth use,” stated Debbie Moellendorf, Positive Youth Development and Health and Well Being Educator, for UW-Extension Lincoln County.
Community members are encouraged to participate in KNOW METH AWARENESS DAY.
•Talk to your children, friends, and family members about the risks and dangers of meth use.
•Learn about the risks and get the facts about meth.
•Monitor the use of pseudoephedrine (cold medicine) in your home.
•Refuse to purchase pseudoephedrine for another person.
•Report suspicious activity to law enforcement’s drug tipline: 1-800-622-3784.
•If you come across suspected meth lab waste, immediately contact local law enforcement.
•Review KNOW METH resources and get involved in Healthy Minds for Lincoln County.
Healthy Minds for Lincoln County is focusing on several strategies recommended by KNOW METH which include educating caregivers on where drugs can be hidden in plain sight (Mock Teen Bedroom), developing resource guides, expanding drug disposal options and increasing access to recovery coaches and services.
Visit knowmethwi.org to learn more. To get involved with Healthy Minds for Lincoln County, contact Kristin Bath, CHES, Lincoln County Health Department at 715-539-1373 or [email protected] or Debbie Moellendorf, UW-Extension Lincoln County at 715-539-1077 or [email protected].