Art Showcase Highlights Youth Opioid Program

An art showcase at the Indigenous Roots Cultural Arts Center in St. Paul highlighted works by teenagers in an opioid use disorder program at the Ramsey County Juvenile Detention Facility, aimed at fostering recovery and self-expression through art. The 16-week program, conducted by Restorative Reiki Health and Wellness, served 112 youth, many with serious charges, emphasizing the healing power of creativity. Local artists, including those with personal experiences in the justice system, facilitated the program, encouraging youth to envision a positive future. Meanwhile, a study by the University of Washington revealed a dramatic increase in opioid-related deaths in Washington, largely attributed to fentanyl, as efforts like Narcan distribution continue to combat overdoses. In response to growing substance abuse concerns, the Dearborn Police Department in Michigan is launching a program providing drug testing kits for parents worried about their teenagers' drug use. These initiatives reflect a broader community effort across various regions to address substance use disorders and promote recovery.