According to the Wayne County 2021-2022 Community Health Needs Assessment, substance abuse ranks second for factors impacting Quality of Life in Wayne County.

These harsh realities have motivated CALM to collaborate with Melissa Harrell, LCMHC, to host a Family Support Group for family members of addicted loved ones, and families who have lost a loved one to addiction.

“Collaborations are important for overcoming substance use,” said Machelle Bass, Chair of CALM. “Anyone navigating the world of addiction without support eventually feels frustrated and/or helpless. Our Family Support Group offers an opportunity of convening for a common purpose which, over time, leads to empowerment.”

Melissa Harrell stated, “Substance use is like dropping a pebble in a pond. It ripples into crime, economics, children’s lives, family’s lives, and more.”

The Family Support Group is different from a therapeutic group.

“A therapeutic group is led by the therapist and is centered on the therapeutic goals,” said Harrell. “The Family Support Group is led by those who attend. The leader is there to validate and support what is being shared.”

The Family Support Group will meet the second Tuesday of each month from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 at 900 S. Harding Street, Goldsboro.

CALM is also hosting International Overdose Awareness Day on Aug. 31 at the Hub on Center Street starting at 11:00 a.m. There will be speakers, vendors, and a remembrance of those who have been lost due to an overdose.