Workers on frontline of crisis

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When we consider one of the nation’s most pressing issues, the opioid epidemic, our first thoughts go to the addicted who need help and their families who are negatively impacted by the scourge of addiction.

Too often, we forget about the workers on the frontlines of this crisis, doing everything they can to provide help and resources to struggling Ohioans. Just this week, the National Safety Council announced that Ohio is one of 13 states marked as “improving” in regards to the opioid issue, and this is much in part due to the work of these individuals.

That’s why I commend the state for partnering with the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities to host a week of appreciation for these hardworking individuals.

“Bringing Help, Bringing Hope. Thank You” week will take place April 9-15 and will be commemorated through a number of events and activities across Ohio to recognize the incredible work going on in our communities to confront the opioid epidemic and help families.

Each and every day, doctors, nurses, emergency medical service workers, law enforcement officers, mental health experts, social workers, and staff at local organizations like our county Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health (ADAMHS) boards work tirelessly to stem the tide of addiction and move Ohio forward into a healthier state of being.

Not only that, these individuals work selflessly and give of themselves to help those in greater need.

Their work is nothing short of admirable.

In fact, our own local board, the Mental Health Recovery Services of Warren and Clinton Counties, will be taking part in this week of appreciation by visiting first responders across the region.

Those striving to end the opioid epidemic and provide aid to those who are addicted deal with their own kind of difficulties and pain. This crisis is one that affects us all, physically and emotionally.

If we must come together to combat this multifaceted issue with innovative solutions, we have to support all those impacted, from the children of those who are addicted to the nurses who treat individuals in rehabilitation. Only through working as one can we hope to put an end to this epidemic and ensure Ohio is a healthier place to live, work, and raise a family.

“Bringing Help, Bringing Hope. Thank You” week will do its part to show appreciation for all those who work day in and day out to accomplish this goal.

Ohio House Speaker Cliff Rosenberger (R-Clarksville) represents the 91st District, which includes Clinton County.

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Cliff Rosenberger

Ohio House Speaker

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