North Dakota’s First Lady, Kathryn Burgum, is advocating for the continuation of efforts to end the stigma around addiction as Governor Doug Burgum wraps up his final term. The Burgums will host their eighth annual Recovery Reinvented event in Bismarck, focusing on reducing misconceptions surrounding addiction. The Office of Recovery Reinvented was established to eliminate shame and stigma associated with addiction, funded by private donations and partnerships.
Kathryn Burgum plans to continue working on reducing the stigma even after Gov. Burgum leaves office. She is meeting with potential incoming governors to advocate for keeping the office in place. The office has made significant progress, with a survey showing that 75% of respondents consider addiction a disease, an increase from previous years. This shift in perception opens doors for more resources and funding for addiction treatment.
Jonathan Holth, managing director of the Office of Recovery Reinvented, emphasizes the importance of continuing the work to reduce the stigma around addiction. By sharing personal stories of addiction and recovery, individuals like Holth and Kathryn Burgum are empowering others to seek help without shame. The annual events have reached a wider audience, impacting communities across North Dakota.
Recovery organizations like the Heartview Foundation credit Recovery Reinvented for helping reduce stigma and increase awareness about addiction. Peer support specialists play a crucial role in providing support for individuals in recovery, helping them find jobs and continue their path to recovery. Kathryn Burgum’s dedication to addressing addiction with grace and humility has been recognized by community leaders and advocates. Through personal stories and continual efforts, the hope is to create a supportive environment for those struggling with addiction to seek treatment and overcome stigma.
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