Mental Health & Addiction

The unfortunate stigma surrounding mental health and addiction means these problems are often hidden, and people can be afraid to speak out about them. But these are very real problems that affect so many here in Newton, and are no less important than our schools and our roads.

Bryan is a strong supporter of comprehensive mental health and substance abuse and addiction treatment and support. These are issues that have hit very close to home for Bryan’s family, and he knows firsthand the struggles that family members face navigating our healthcare system when a loved one is facing mental health problems or addiction. As a child and young adult, Bryan personally experienced living with multiple family members’ significant mental health struggles including depression, drug abuse, homelessness, imprisonment, and suicide.

In 2018 Newton launched a free Narcan training and distribution program.That is an important step, but unfortunately many of the ‘Need Narcan?’ banners explaining the program were removed when residents voiced their concern about the message that the banners conveyed. We cannot hide from the opioid crisis, but rather must face it head on through programs like Newton’s Narcan training and distribution, as well as including mental health and substance abuse professionals in the police response process.

We also need to continue working to keep addictive substances out of the hands of children and address students’ mental health, especially during the pandemic. Vaping is the most popular form of nicotine use for young people, and newly opening recreational marijuana stores will present parents with new challenges. School health programs and training for teachers and school staff are a step in the right direction. 

The COVID-19 pandemic means people are struggling more than ever before. We must do more to provide at-risk individuals and their support networks of family and friends with the resources they need, even when they are quarantined at home.

Newton must remain vigilant, we must not shy away from these conversations and continue to look for ways to improve our response.

If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health or addiction issues, there is a list of resources on the City of Newton website.