🌟Addiction is a treatable chronic medical disease that affects millions of Americans.
💪Only 10% of people with substance use disorder receive proper treatment.
🌍We need to change the narrative around addiction, mental health, and suicide prevention.
📣Sharing stories and advocating for change can create a positive impact.
🌈Recovery is possible for everyone, regardless of background or circumstances.
What is addiction?
—Addiction is a chronic medical disease that involves compulsive substance use or engaging in certain behaviors despite harmful consequences.
How many Americans suffer from substance use disorder?
—Over 20 million Americans suffer from substance use disorder.
What percentage of people with substance use disorder receive proper treatment?
—Only 10% of people with substance use disorder receive proper treatment.
What is the goal of the nonprofit organization 'We Are Those People'?
—The goal of 'We Are Those People' is to change the narrative of addiction recovery, mental health, and suicide prevention through advocacy, raising awareness, and sharing stories.
What is the importance of sharing stories in the journey of recovery?
—Sharing stories helps to educate, inspire, and connect individuals in recovery while reducing stigma and promoting empathy and understanding.
00:00Erica Ball, a first-generation Paraguayan American, shares her journey of recovery from drugs and alcohol.
01:31She talks about the challenges and barriers faced by individuals with substance use disorder in accessing proper treatment and aftercare.
03:08Erica emphasizes the need to change the narrative around addiction, mental health, and suicide prevention.
06:52She discusses the power of sharing stories and how it can inspire change and reduce stigma.
09:35Erica encourages individuals in recovery and those affected by addiction to be more open-minded, extend compassion, and advocate for better treatment and support.
