For Immediate Release
SENT, Inc. Launches Year-Long Substance Use Disorder Awareness Campaign
Topeka, KS — In January 2025, SENT, Inc. will launch a comprehensive year-long campaign to raise awareness about Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and spotlight the critical services available through our SUD Department. This campaign seeks to foster community understanding, reduce stigma, and encourage those in need to seek support.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 49 million Americans aged 12 or older experienced SUD in 2021, yet the majority went without treatment. Kansas ranks #24 for the prevalence of SUD and #44 for treatment access. This initiative aims to bridge that gap and provide holistic, accessible care in Southeast Topeka.
Launching with “Dry January”
Our campaign begins with Dry January, a month-long challenge encouraging individuals to abstain from alcohol. Dry January highlights the benefits of reducing alcohol consumption and serves as a powerful step toward addressing SUD in our community.
Key Dry January Initiatives:
- Social Media Challenge: Launching the hashtag #DryJanuaryTopeka, SENT Inc. will share educational content, inspirational stories, and more, while encouraging people to comment with their own stories and experiences.
- Progress Tracker: Weekly goals and check-ins will be promoted through a downloadable tracker template available to print. A Sobriety Tracker app will also be recommended for additional support.
- Online Support Group: Launching a Facebook group, The Road to Recovery: Empowering Each Other, where participants can connect, share experiences, and offer encouragement.
- End-of-Month Celebration: Join us at the Mocktail Mingle on January 31st, 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM, Room 107 in the Avondale East Building. The event will include alcohol-free beverages, light refreshments, giveaways, and a community celebration. Attendees will learn about ongoing SUD services and sign up for continued support.
Monthly Themes for Awareness
Each month, SENT will address a specific SUD-related topic, including:
- February: Family Impact of Addiction
- March: Emerging Drug Trends
- April: Stress Management & SUD (National Stress Awareness Month)
- May: Mental Health & Recovery (National Mental Health Month)
- June: Recovery Support Groups
- July: Managing Cravings & Coping Skills
- August: Youth & Teen Substance Use
- September: National Recovery Month
- October: Opioid Awareness and Prevention (National Substance Use Prevention Month)
- November: Building Healthy Relationships
- December: Navigating Holiday Stress
The Importance of Holistic Care
At SENT, our approach to SUD focuses on the entire person. Addiction is a multifaceted disease, often linked to trauma or mental health challenges. Our licensed counselors and specialists use evidence-based practices like Person-Centered Case Management and Morita Therapy to help individuals and families on their path to recovery. SENT also offers assessments for those with DUI-related offenses, ensuring comprehensive support for diverse needs.
Services Provided:
- Confidential Screening & Assessment
- Personalized Treatment Plans
- Relapse Prevention Strategies
- Lifelong Support Networks
Community Call to Action
This campaign is a rallying cry for our Topeka community to join forces in combatting SUD. Together, we can create a supportive, informed, and proactive environment where no one faces addiction alone.
For more information, visit SENT, Inc. or contact us at (785) 783-2535 ext. 301.
ABOUT SENT INC.
SENT Inc. is a grassroots 501(c)3 community development organization dedicated to working with under-resourced communities in Topeka. Our mission is to intentionally walk beside our neighbors through loving relationships and strategic development, ultimately achieving the holistic transformation of neighborhoods in Shawnee County. SENT’s approach focuses on key areas such as Education, Housing Development, Community Wellness, and Behavioral Health, all through the pillars of Loving Relationships, Life-Giving Resources, and Life-Changing Experiences.