While April brings hope of spring and growth and the levity of April Fool's Day — we need to also acknowledge the importance of Alcohol Awareness Month and National Minority Health Month (NMHM). Alcohol Awareness Month aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote community action, while NMHM highlights the importance of reducing health disparities and improving the health of racial and ethnic minorities and American Indian/Alaskan Natives.
First, a snapshot of what we're facing in terms of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD):
At Sound, our addiction management physician and psychiatrists can prescribe medications that complement therapy:
Recognizing that for many, reducing alcohol consumption is more feasible than immediate abstinence, Sound embraces a harm-reduction approach. Our goal is gradual progress toward healthier lifestyles. AUD and Substance Use Disorders (SUD) in general transcend age barriers. Sound clinicians are encountering children as young as 13 struggling with fentanyl and other drug dependence. We're committed to expanding our youth-focused programs and services for all substance use disorders.
Now for a closer look at AUD among certain minority groups: Native Americans have higher rates of alcohol dependence and related deaths despite lower overall alcohol consumption than the general population. While the Black community has lower rates of AUD than those in the majority, those who do suffer from AUD face disproportionate negative consequences such as poverty, limited education, legal problems, and unemployment. Racism, stigma, and cultural barriers complicate access to mental health services within BIPOC communities. Sound is working very hard to lessen these disparities by making behavioral health care more accessible for minorities.
For additional information about reducing minority health disparities:
For assistance or more information about AUD:
Let's unite to amplify awareness, extend support, and foster hope as we confront the complexities of AUD and the disparities of minority health.
Katrina Egner
Sound President & CEO
This September, SOUND celebrated the power of partnerships in advancing hope, healing, and recovery. Highlights included the ribbon-cutting of the new ICHS Auburn Clinic, bringing integrated health services under one roof, and the launch of our SOUND Activation Station at Southcenter Mall to raise awareness on suicide prevention. We look ahead with excitement to the upcoming Sound of Hope Gala, where we’ll continue building community support for accessible, equitable care.
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Earlier this month, we had the honor of cutting the ribbon and officially opening the doors to a new chapter of care in Auburn. In partnership with International Community Health Services (ICHS), SOUND's Auburn clinic is now home to integrated behavioral health, primary care, and mobile dental services, all under one roof. This collaboration is more than just a co-habitation; it’s a powerful step toward whole-person care that lowers barriers, makes services easier to access, and provides a more supportive experience for individuals and families in our community.
Read moreThis summer has been energizing as we connected with our SOUND community in meaningful ways. From serving meals at FareStart, to tabling at the THING festival, to our first-ever golf tournament, one theme remained clear: behavioral health impacts us all. These moments of connection reinforced why we’re here—to keep the Orange Door open, expand access, and break down stigma. Thank you for your advocacy, partnership, and belief in SOUND’s mission. Together, we’re making compassionate, quality care possible.
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