McKinley Park Underage Drinking and Other Substances Prevention Coalition

Did you know social media plays a big role in how young people perceive substance use? From peer influence to targeted ads, here’s how it impacts youth. Let's raise awareness and support positive choices!

Problem gambling affects millions and has a massive social cost.

Did you know:
🔸 2.5 million adults in the U.S. meet the criteria for severe problem gambling.
🔸 The national social cost of problem gambling is a staggering $14 billion.
🔸 34% of those with a gambling disorder also suffer from PTSD.
🔸 50% of individuals in treatment for problem gambling have suicidal thoughts, with 17% having attempted su***de.
🔸 Shockingly, only 10% of people with a gambling problem seek help.

If you or someone you know needs help, please call 1.800.GAMBLER.

Let's spread awareness and support those in need. "

In the United States, around 15 million people are struggling with an alcohol use disorder. Remember, self-care involves both your body and mind! Be kind to yourself and watch your drink. Here are a few signs that you or a loved one might have an addiction to alcohol, along with some tips to help combat this addiction.

Today, our team attended the "2024 Conversations in Problem Gambling" conference, hosted by the Illinois Council on Problem Gambling (ICPG). The event delved into the latest trends and challenges surrounding problem gambling, providing valuable insights and discussions to help address the growing concerns of problem gambling.

Are you or someone you know struggling with problem gambling? Remember, help is just a call away. Take control of your life and reach out for support. Call 1.800.GAMBLER anytime, day or night. All calls are confidential.

Check out this snapshot from the conference and the informative flyer below.

Substance use can severely impact your mental health. From increased risks of strokes and cancer to anxiety and depression, the consequences are real. Did you know that 7.7 million adults struggle with both mental health and substance use disorders? Let's raise awareness and support each other.

Since Illinois legalized cannabis in January 2020, we've seen changes in how college students report their use. Curious about the trends among different grades and genders? Take a look at the latest findings. Let's work together to promote healthy choices for our youth!

"

Early conversations about mental health and substance use can make a big difference. Be a source of support and understanding for your kids. Together, we can foster resilience and well-being. Let’s create a safer, healthier future for our youth.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month!
We're shedding light on the complex relationship between alcohol and mental health. Did you know that alcohol use can worsen conditions like depression and anxiety? From triggering psychosis to increasing impulsivity, its effects are far-reaching. Let's prioritize mental well-being and rethink our relationship with alcohol. Seek support if needed. "
Source: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/alcohol-and-mental-health

Get ready for an incredible celebration of culture, entertainment, and health at the Asian Heritage Month event in Chicago's Chinatown!

Date: May 11th, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Address: 2130 S. Archer Ave, Chicago

This year's lineup features the grand opening performance of the "Chinese Character Carnival", traditional cultural performances, and health screening education and services. Dive into vibrant cultural experiences, enjoy free activities and gifts, and join us for a day filled with fun for all ages! Don't miss out on this weekend's highlights! See you there! "

Join us for the Asian American Conference on Problem Gambling!

📅 May 10th, 8:00 am - 3:30 pm
📍 UIC Forum (1213 South Halsted Street Chicago, IL 60607)
🖊️ Register today! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/asian-american-conference-on-problem-gambling-tickets-856223947877

Understand problem gambling, break stigmas, enhance understanding, and unite as one community! Free admission with CEU options. Complimentary lunch provided. Spread the word and reserve your spot now! "

is a free event for communities nationwide to properly dispose of old and unneeded medications (except liquids, syringes and illegal drugs) safely and anonymously. This Saturday, April 27, from 10am-2pm bring old and unneeded medications to a collection site near you: www.DEATakeBack.com

April is Alcohol Awareness Month.

Alcohol is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths. It contributes to more than 200 health conditions like liver disease, heart disease, stomach bleeding, stroke, cancer and more. About 1 in 6 US adults binge drink, it is the most common and costly pattern of excessive alcohol use. Binge drinking id defined as consuming 5 or more drinks for men and 4 or more for women within 2 hours.

Source: https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics/alcohol-facts-and-statistics/alcohol-and-human-body

How does gambling addiction and substance use relate?

According to QuitGamble, they found studies where 17% of people who was diagnosed with a gambling problem was also diagnosed with a substance use disorder. About 60% of those with problem gambling have had problems with alcohol in their life.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use or gambling problems, you can reach out to the Illinois Helpline. They can connect you to local centers near you that can help. For more information about Illinois Helpline, go to helplineil.org or call 1-833-234-6343.

Source: https://quitgamble.com/gambling-addiction-statistics-and-facts/ -toc-anchor-6

Problem gambling includes all gambling behavior patterns that have negative effects on an individual. About 2.5 million Americans have severe problem gambling some have more than $300,000 in gambling debt!

Get screened today! https://forms.office.com/r/erwfc20fJH

Find Help Near You by going to www.areyoureallywinning.org Or Call 1-800-GAMBLER

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month or !

can be fun when you know when to stop and what your limits are. It is no longer fun when gambling gets out of control. So, Are You Really Winning? Below are some early signs or indicators when gambling becomes a problem.

For more information about problem gambling or find help near you, check out areyoureallywinning.com, call 1-800-426-2537, or text "GAMB" to 833234.

You can also reach out to MAHA at 312-753-3124 or email [email protected] for help too!

Join us in celebrating Chicago's birthday on Monday, March 4th from 6pm to 7pm at W 37th and S Honore! 🎂

Let's commemorate the rich history and vibrant spirit of our beloved city. There will be complimentary beverages, music, and birthday cakes! We will sing Happy Birthday in English, Chinese, and Spanish led by special guests and community leaders.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to come together as a community and honor the place we call home. See you there! 🌆 🎈🎊

For more information: https://mckinleypark.news/events/showcase-events/event/21939-chicagos-birthday-party

The Monitoring the Future survey found teen substance use among 8th, 10th and 12th grade has decreased the past few years. In 2022 to 2023, substance use have been stable. When you compare the data from 2020 to 2023, there is a significant decrease of 5%.

Alcohol Data Source: https://monitoringthefuture.org/data/bx-by/drug-prevalence/ =%22Alcohol%22

Ma*****na Data Source: https://monitoringthefuture.org/data/bx-by/drug-prevalence/ =%22Ma*****na+%28Cannabis%29%22

Happy Lunar New Year! Wishing you good health and great luck in the Year of the Dragon.

If you or a loved one is participating in New Year Activities that is related to gambling or money, please be mind of what you are doing as some of the activities can give the wrong impression to kids and those around you.

Is this what winning feels like?

In an average year, people with gambling issues estimated that they spent a median of $16,750 on gambling.

If you see the signs of problem gambling, we’re here for you. Help is available is 24/7: Call 1.800.GAMBLER or visit AreYouReallyWinning.com.

December is Impaired Driving Prevention Month!

During the 2017-2021 December ❄️ months, more than 4,500 people were killed in
alcohol-impaired-driving crashes. If you’ve been drinking, don’t get behind the wheel.
or Get Pulled Over.

Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Bally’s opened their Medinah location in September with a temporary license. Now, state regulators approved a full license for Bally’s permanent site in River East. It is planned to open September 2026 with 3400 slots, 173 table games.

Bally’s Chicago Granted Casino License, Clock Ticking on Temp Operation - Casino.org State gambling regulators have approved a full license for Bally’s to take bets in Chicago. The Illinois Gaming Board unanimously voted to grant Bally’s

Narcan will be available at the 95th Red Line Stop. Five vending machines will be installed around the city dispensing Narcan to increase its access and combat opioid overdoses. The vending machines will also have Fentanyl and Xylazine Test Strips, socks, underwear, mensural, and other hygiene kits. CDPH hopes to install more vending machines in other CTA lines.

Check out this interview and article with CDPH: https://www.wbez.org/stories/how-chicago-is-fighting-opioid-deaths-on-the-cta/df30a7f9-2b5f-4fc6-a352-2b2c803ef4dd

Are you really winning? The Illinois Helpline can help you understand the signs and get you the help that you need. That’s a win, for you and the people that you care about.

Call 1800-GAMBLER or visit the website for resources: www.areyoureallywinning.com

Cannabis products have labels warning consumers about the product. This month, McHenry County now require cannabis dispensaries to have health warning signs posted in their store, cautioning consumers that it may worsen their mental health.

Please note that cannabis products containing THC may worsen symptoms, not cause mental health illnesses.

Source: https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2023/09/21/weed-dispensaries-mchenry-county-mental-health

September is

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health problems, or have thoughts or signs of su***de, please reach out to someone you trust.

You can always call 988 if you are experiencing an emotional distress or suicidal crisis

According to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office, over 91% of opioid overdose deaths involved fentanyl in 2022. About 78% of those victims were male and more than half of them were African American.

Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office Confirms Record 2,000 Opioid Overdose Deaths in Cook County for 2022 Overwhelming majority of cases involve fentanyl The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed 2,000 opioid overdose deaths for 2022, breaking the previous record of 1,935 set in 2021. More than 91% of opioid overdose deaths involved fentanyl. Fentanyl is up to 50 times more potent than h...

August 21 is National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day. Illegally made fentanyl is one of the most common drugs involved in overdose deaths. Join us in raising awareness of the dangers of fentanyl! Learn more about fentanyl and how to protect yourself or your loved ones at the link below

Fentanyl Facts Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than he**in and 100 times stronger than morphine. It is a major contributor to fatal and nonfatal overdoses in the U.S.1

Tech leaders are turning to painkillers and alcohol to cope with stress, survey finds Nearly one-half of tech leaders surveyed say they used controlled substances every day or nearly every day.

In Good Spirits Wants to Be at the Heart of Chicago's Sober Scene Chicago's newest sober bar and bottle shop is the perfect place to try non-alcoholic beer, cider, and spirits.

Pritzker signs measure banning e-cigarette use in public spaces The 15-year-old Smoke-Free Illinois Act, which makes most indoor public spaces off-limits for smoking, now governs electronic ci******es as well.