At SENT, Inc., we believe in a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Yet, Substance Use Disorder (SUD) remains a significant challenge, impacting millions of Americans every year. In 2025, SENT will embark on a year-long journey to raise awareness, educate, and inspire action around SUD. This campaign seeks to foster understanding, reduce stigma, and provide the tools and support our neighbors need to overcome addiction.
Understanding Substance Use Disorder
Substance Use Disorder is a chronic health condition characterized by the recurrent use of alcohol or drugs, leading to significant impairment in daily life. In 2021, approximately 49 million people in the U.S. aged 12 or older struggled with SUD, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Yet, only a fraction of those individuals received the treatment they needed.
Kansas faces unique challenges, ranking 44th in the nation for access to treatment services. With only 153 treatment facilities serving the state, many individuals go without critical support. SENT aims to bridge this gap through holistic, person-centered care.
Launching with Dry January
Our campaign begins with Dry January, an initiative designed to encourage individuals to abstain from alcohol for the month. Beyond promoting healthier habits, Dry January offers a supportive entry point for conversations around SUD.
Key Features of Dry January:
- #DryJanuaryTopeka 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: Join The Road to Recovery: Empowering Each Other, a Facebook group designed to offer community, encouragement, and shared wisdom.
- Mocktail Mingle Celebration: On January 31st, participants will gather for a celebratory event featuring alcohol-free drinks, giveaways, and opportunities to connect with SENT’s SUD services.
Year-Long Focus: Monthly Themes
Throughout 2024, SENT will spotlight different aspects of SUD each month, offering education and practical tools for individuals and families:
- January: Dry January
- February: The Family Impact of Addiction
- March: Drug Trends and Emerging Threats
- April: Stress and Substance Use
- May: Mental Health and Recovery
- June: Support Groups and Peer Networks
- July: Coping Skills for Cravings and Triggers
- August: Youth and Teen Substance Use
- September: National Recovery Month
- October: Opioid Awareness and Prevention
- November: Building Healthy Relationships
- December: Managing Holiday Stress
Comprehensive Support Services
At SENT, we provide a continuum of care to support individuals at every stage of their recovery journey. Our services include:
Our team of licensed professionals offers specialized services, including SUD assessments for DUI cases, trauma-informed care, and therapeutic approaches like Morita Therapy and Making Sense of Your Worth (MSOYW).
Why This Matters
Substance Use Disorder touches every corner of our community, affecting families, workplaces, and neighborhoods. Addiction is not a moral failing; it’s a complex disease often linked to trauma and mental health challenges. By addressing these root causes and providing compassionate, judgment-free care, SENT is committed to helping individuals reclaim their lives.
This campaign is more than awareness—it’s an invitation to our community to stand together in the fight against SUD.
Join Us
Whether participating in Dry January, attending monthly events, or exploring our SUD services, every step helps build a healthier, stronger Topeka. Together, we can break the cycle of addiction and create a brighter future for all.
For more information or to get involved, contact SENT, Inc. at (785) 783-2535 ext. 301.