Changing minds
To support our neighbors and build a healthier community for everyone, we created the Changing Minds Larimer campaign. This public awareness effort was developed in 2017 with the Mental Health and Substance Use Alliance to address the critical health crisis of substance use disorder.
Through social media, a website, videos and events, Changing Minds wants every person affected by substance use disorder to feel seen, valued and understood.
Understanding substance use disorder
Substance use disorder is a chronic, life-threatening disease that changes the brain. It isn’t a simple choice or a character flaw. This illness rewires the brain to function as if the substance is essential for survival. It requires medical care and compassion, just like cancer or diabetes.
A community approach to healing
One in 10 Larimer County residents lives with a substance use disorder. But many of these community members don’t receive the treatment they need.
By changing the way we talk about substance use disorder, we reduce the stigma so that more people feel safe asking for help. Open conversations encourage support, improve access to care and save lives.
Recovery is possible. The brain can heal. With medication, counseling and ongoing support, people can and do rebuild their lives.
Join the conversation
Visit the Changing Minds website to learn more about the campaign and discover how you can support your neighbors. Together, we can break down barriers and bring hope to those who need it most.