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 June, SOUND built on the momentum of Mental Health Awareness Month with continued action, reflection, and celebration. We honored Juneteenth, recognized Men’s Health Month, and stood proudly with the LGBTQ+ community during Pride by expanding inclusive care and joining community events like the Trans Pride and Seattle Pride Parades. While our Orange Door campaign has ended, our commitment to accessible, affirming mental health care continues every day.
Read moreFor Mental Health Awareness Month, SOUND launched the Orange Door campaign to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental health. Seven bright orange doors are on display across King County—at places like Pike Place Market and UW—symbolizing the hope, healing, and recovery we offer to 15,000 people each year. As need grows and funding remains uncertain, we’re asking our community to stand with us. Thank you to our partners and supporters for helping make this campaign possible.
Read moreThis spring, amid ongoing uncertainty, Sound remains a steady force for our clients and partners. As state leaders shape the next budget, we’re urging them to maintain Medicaid funding—vital to our services and the people we serve. Our programs ease pressure on emergency rooms, law enforcement, and first responders by providing effective, community-based care. Continued support for initiatives like Mobile Crisis Teams and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) is essential. We thank our public, private, and community partners for standing with us as we work toward a healthier, more stable future.
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