By Georgeana Cook

Lopez Island Prevention Coalition

In a community deeply touched by events related to mental health and/or substance abuse, the dialogue to make the invisible visible has begun. May 1 was the first of a series of conversations that began with this question: What are all of the mental health and substance abuse concerns on Lopez Island?

For some it was clear. They wanted to address methamphetamine, also known as meth, and take immediate action to eradicate it from the community. Others wanted to take a broader look at all the factors that contributed to the large picture of mental health and substance abuse on the island.

Using an audience response system, for more than 40 Lopezians began the work of a community assessment. Working with a facilitator, these community members sought to identify the protective factors (the positive elements the community had in place) and the risk factors (the elements missing to help with the issues of concern).

The following categories were identified by the group as areas of focus – drug and alcohol abuse, protective supports, lack of services, geographic factors of island life plus policies, procedures and enforcement. Meth, lack of opportunities, economic factors and culture were also identified.

On May 8 another group of more than 20 met to discuss their concerns and ideas for solutions around meth. Committed to the elimination/reduction of drug deals/suppliers and the need to provide support for those who suffered from addiction, several suggestions were offered and the formulation of an action plan was in the making.

Additional meetings will follow the community assessment and the development of a community wide-action plan. May 15 and June 12 will be next meetings of the facilitated process.

Those interested in coordinated efforts around meth will be meeting on May 29.

All meetings are organized by the Lopez Island Prevention Coalition and will be held at Woodmen Hall from 6-8 p.m. If you have an questions or concerns or want to be put on the contact list – call the coalition office at 376-3770 or email lopez.prevention@gmail.com. All members of the community are invited to participate.