Walden University
Week 6 Assignment
SOCW 6361
Substance abuse is a proven problem in the United States. Substance abuse affects individuals
of all ages, takes a toll on your family, and has negative effects on your health. "Substance
abuse is a disease that, left untreated, can destroy individual's families, and community life"
(Steenord, 2010). The Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act of 2000 was approved by
California voters and provides offenders who were convicted of drug possession or drug use
treatment instead of jail time. Those who are first-time and repeat offenders are eligible to
participate. (County of Santa Clara Public Defender Office, 2023). To explain how I would
promote change regarding my substance abuse as a policy advocate, I would provide
resources for the families and individuals who are addicted, expand access to quality
addiction care, make treatment affordable, and raise awareness. Resources that can be
provided can include treatment that can help achieve sobriety and medication for mental
illnesses. Rehab facilities and residential facilities can serve as a resource because they offer
12 twelve meetings, recovery groups, and evidence-based treatment models such as yoga and
meditation. To make treatment more affordable for addicts, is to accept Medicaid and
Medicare, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) grants,
and The Affordable Care Act (ACA). (Partnership to End Addiction, 2021). Raising
awareness about substance abuse is important because it can help young adults understand
that all drugs have potential harm, providing accurate drug information to young adults can
Week 6 Assignment
SOCW 6361
Substance abuse is a proven problem in the United States. Substance abuse affects individuals
of all ages, takes a toll on your family, and has negative effects on your health. "Substance
abuse is a disease that, left untreated, can destroy individual's families, and community life"
(Steenord, 2010). The Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act of 2000 was approved by
California voters and provides offenders who were convicted of drug possession or drug use
treatment instead of jail time. Those who are first-time and repeat offenders are eligible to
participate. (County of Santa Clara Public Defender Office, 2023). To explain how I would
promote change regarding my substance abuse as a policy advocate, I would provide
resources for the families and individuals who are addicted, expand access to quality
addiction care, make treatment affordable, and raise awareness. Resources that can be
provided can include treatment that can help achieve sobriety and medication for mental
illnesses. Rehab facilities and residential facilities can serve as a resource because they offer
12 twelve meetings, recovery groups, and evidence-based treatment models such as yoga and
meditation. To make treatment more affordable for addicts, is to accept Medicaid and
Medicare, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) grants,
and The Affordable Care Act (ACA). (Partnership to End Addiction, 2021). Raising
awareness about substance abuse is important because it can help young adults understand
that all drugs have potential harm, providing accurate drug information to young adults can
