In many communities, men have been revered as the steadfast providers and protectors of their families. Societally, we hold a belief that men are the stronger sex— both mentally and physically. It’s hard not to notice that every uncle, cousin, brother, father, or grandfather has never shared a feeling of anxiety, stress, or the struggles that often accompany life’s challenges. … [Read more...] about Masculinity, mental health, and substance use
Rise Drug Free MKE
An undeniable connection: Substance use and mental health
Her nerves are bad. He’s got the blues. They’re back on the bottle again. We’ve all heard these statements to describe someone who is struggling. Every one of us knows what it feels like to be overwhelmed, day after day, with no end in sight. So, what do we do? We find ways to manage. Not a moral failing Everyone has different strategies for staying afloat, … [Read more...] about An undeniable connection: Substance use and mental health
Alcohol Awareness Month: A time for healing, truth, and collective care
April marked Alcohol Awareness Month—a moment not just for raising alarms, but for raising consciousness. For the black community, this month invited a deeper reflection on the historical and present- day forces that shape our relationship with alcohol, coping, and healing. We can’t talk about alcohol use without talking about the weight many of us carry weights that are … [Read more...] about Alcohol Awareness Month: A time for healing, truth, and collective care
Light and Unite Red Week
Debunking common misconceptions about alcohol and other drugs Each year, partners across Milwaukee County join forces for Light and Unite Red Week to promote community- wide substance abuse prevention education. The week is in alignment with National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week, an annual observance to inspire dialogue about the science of drug use and addiction among youth. … [Read more...] about Light and Unite Red Week
Addressing stigma: Mental health conversations in black communities
By RISE Drug Free MKE Mental health stigma within black communities remains an on-going challenge, deeply rooted with historical trauma and systemic mistrust. The history of discrimination, along with cultural and socioeconomic factors, has contributed to a silence around mental health issues. Yet, within this complex story, there is also a rich tradition of resilience and … [Read more...] about Addressing stigma: Mental health conversations in black communities
‘Dry January’: A trend worth the hype
There’s something about a global trend that excites the public on a level extending far beyond the self. It demonstrates there is power in the collective. This feels true even for a trend like 'Dry January' that aims to promote individual health and wellness; although a whole culture can benefit when more people drink less alcohol. 'Dry January' origins and benefits … [Read more...] about ‘Dry January’: A trend worth the hype
Creating the right New Year’s resolutions for you
By RISE Drug Free MKE Some people set goals every Monday or on the first of every month; but as 2024 comes to an end, you might feel extra pressure to quit bad habits and turn over a new leaf. But before jumping into 2025, take a moment to reflect on 2024. This reflection can be an insightful tool for setting New Year’s resolutions that align with where you are right now. … [Read more...] about Creating the right New Year’s resolutions for you
How to set clear boundaries with alcohol and other drugs
By RISE Drug Free MKE It’s simplistic to think that “just say no” is the best way to avoid developing a problem with alcohol and other drugs. It didn’t work back in the 1980s, and it isn’t going to work now. Instead, a better approach is for each person to make informed decisions about whether they will use substances, how much they will use, and why. That’s why the … [Read more...] about How to set clear boundaries with alcohol and other drugs
Mid-summer mental health check-in
By RISE Drug Free MKE While summer is associated with good times at the beach, music festivals, and backyard cookouts, it can be difficult to acknowledge that you may be struggling with your emotions. There is so much pressure to be active and engaged in the community that many forget to relax, recuperate, and reflect. But summer is a great time to do a mental health … [Read more...] about Mid-summer mental health check-in
Who’s bearing the burden of commercial tobacco?
By RISE Drug Free MKE June is Pride Month, which celebrates equality for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning or Queer (LGBTQ+) community, and the City of Milwaukee Tobacco Free Alliance is providing extra focus on the heavy burden that smoking and vaping has had on LGTBQ+ individuals. The City of Milwaukee Tobacco-Free Alliance is one of a few local … [Read more...] about Who’s bearing the burden of commercial tobacco?