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Milwaukee Health Department
This week, as we observe National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (March 17-23), the City of Milwaukee Health Department’s (MHD) Health Strategy team is highlighting the importance of substance use awareness, harm reduction, and community resources. Substance use is a significant public health concern. It is often misunderstood, and stigma prevents many individuals and families from accessing the support they need. Through collaboration with community partners, MHD aims to provide education, amplify prevention strategies, and distribute resources to those affected.
Substance use is common. Not everyone who uses substances develops a disorder, but we can all participate in harm reduction; whether it’s identifying a designated driver, engaging in safer sex practices, or carrying naloxone. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH):
The Wisconsin Policy Forum reports that alcohol-related deaths in Wisconsin have increased by 24% between 2020 and 2021, a sharp rise from previous years. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services further highlights that alcohol-related deaths are increasing statewide, emphasizing the need for intervention and awareness.
"We don’t have those conversations enough about (drug use),” said Marques Hogans, MHD’s Director of Health Strategy. “We kind of put it in a space of ‘if we don’t see it, it doesn’t happen,’ but we see the impacts that it has on families."
"If people start acting different, speak up. Engage in conversations. Really show you care about their well-being," Hogans added.
Pictured: MHD Health Strategy Director, Marques Hogans, sharing harm reduction information and resources with community members at annual Juneteenth celebration.
Substance use exists on a spectrum, from abstinence to managed use, problematic use, and, in some cases, chaotic or escalating patterns. While substance use disorder isn’t always obvious, professionals look for key behavioral changes to assess its impact.
"Some of the cues that clinicians or first responders use to assess for disorder include dedicating a disproportionate amount of time to obtaining substances, disrupting day-to-day commitments, and stopping important activities they previously participated in,” said Anna Narvey, MHD’s Senior Public Health Strategist. “Those are things that professionals look for, but they can also be recognized in our social networks.”
Community members can help by engaging with individuals who exhibit these changes, expressing concern without judgment, and encouraging professional support rather than making assumptions or unofficial diagnoses.
"An average citizen can’t diagnose. For example, I am not a clinician, so I cannot diagnose (substance use disorders),” said Alexandria Kohn, an MHD Public Health Strategist. “Concern is one thing, but diagnosing is another. That could be really stigmatizing too. It’s important to make sure people aren’t just diagnosing and instead, advocating for that person to seek professional help.”
MHD’s Health Strategy team is committed to reducing stigma, increasing access to harm reduction tools, and connecting residents with critical resources. Its initiatives include:
Being a trusted source of accurate, non-biased, and up-to-date public health information from prevention tactics to treatment options.
Expanding the availability of the opioid reversal medication naloxone (brand name Narcan) and fentanyl test strips throughout Milwaukee.
Partnering with local organizations on strategies to ensure people who use substances can access healthcare, resources, and treatment.
Promoting public awareness campaigns and amplify public health messages to encourage safer substance use practices and community education.
Updating the MHD substance use webpage to include up-to-date information on available services, locations to obtain harm reduction resources, and links to community organizations providing support.
"Being comfortable with asking for help, using those helplines, using those resources that are readily available, is important,” said Robert Walker, an MHD Public Health Strategist who focuses on mental health and community resiliency. “Self-care is important for both the individuals and their families. Being ok with saying, ‘I’m not ok.’"
"It’s crucial to use the resources available and make sure that people know they are not alone in their struggles," Walker added.
Pictured: MHD Health Strategists Robert Walker and Melissa Seidl volunteering at annual Juneteenth celebration, sharing harm reduction information and resources with community members.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, there are confidential and accessible resources available:
SAMHSA’s National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-4357 for free, confidential treatment referral and information, available 24/7. Learn more
Resources for Families and Individuals: Find Mental Health and Substance Use Support Learn more
Wisconsin DHS Alcohol and Drug Data: State-Specific Statistics and Trends Learn more
NIAAA Alcohol Data and long-term Health Effects Learn more
Milwaukee-area Harm Reduction Resources Naloxone, fentanyl test strips, and support services are available through MHD and community partners. Check out our harm reduction resource page for more details. Learn more
As a community, we can take small but meaningful steps to reduce harm and support those in need:
Normalize conversations about substance use to reduce stigma and encourage open dialogue.
Meet people where they are. Understand that substance use is complex and spans many behaviors. Learn to recognize the signs of substance use disorder and offer appropriate resources and unconditional support without judgment.
Use the "4 P’s" questionnaire (Parents, Partner, Past, Present) to initiate non-threatening discussions about substance use history.
Advocate for harm reduction policies and access to health promotion and treatment resources in Milwaukee.
Compassionate support is key to helping individuals and families navigate substance use challenges. By working together—through awareness, harm reduction, and access to care—we can create a healthier Milwaukee for all.
For more information and updates, follow MHD’s official channels and stay connected with our community partners. Let’s continue working toward a future where everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive.