Opioid addiction and substance use disorders; a taboo and unmentionable affliction. 

At least, that is how it was viewed for a very long time. To even know of someone suffering through this specific type of addiction, let alone anything along those lines, was something that never should be talked about, looked at, checked up on or given a second thought.

But now, it’s time to end that stigma for the health of our county and our people.

This was one of the main points of the candlelight vigil on August 31, highlighting International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD). It was held outside of the courthouse in Monticello.

Addiction of this caliber was by all means a hidden epidemic — but it must be no longer. With more and more everyday people suffering and dying from fatal opioid overdoses and other illegal substances, with the worst of it in New York State being right on our own Main Streets, our own backyards, it is impossible to look at things the same way. 

Stigma keeps our people who need help from getting help. It does nothing but protect a false idealization that is not even the reality of the situation in this county any longer. 

If all boats rise with the tide, then all boats lower with the tide as well, meaning, if our neighbors are continuously in danger, we are all continuing to be in danger. 

We have got to do away with the mentality of this ‘lower caste system’ for those suffering from opioids. It is the only way to move forward hand-in-hand with those who may be in need of assistance but are too afraid to ask for it. We cannot complain about the problem and have them be fixed without recognizing our own biases.

One great program that puts people back on the right track is Hope Not Handcuffs, an initiative implemented in 2021 by The Sullivan County District Attorney’s Office and Sullivan County’s Drug Task Force.

The goal is to assist individuals suffering from substance use issues to instantly connect them to an advocate and a network of resources designed to lead them to success, rather than an arrest.

There is a way forward, and it is together in understanding and empathy. Let’s end the stigma.