STOMP THE STIGMA

Stomp the Stigma is dedicated to reducing the stigma surrounding seeking help and treatment for those who are living with mental health and substance abuse disorders. The annual event, started in 2018 in Ketchikan, Alaska, represents a collaborative effort to end societal stereotypes around individuals suffering from mental/behavioral health challenges and/or substance use disorders. 

Substance use disorder and mental health struggles affect people from all walks of life and all age groups - they do not discriminate based on economic status, race, religion, or sex. For the past two decades, Alaska has consistently ranked among the top ten states for highest rates of drug use.

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• Teenagers in Alaska are 25.67% more likely to have used drugs in the last month than the average American teen. 

• The prevalence of illicit drug use in young adults aged 18-25 in Alaska is 8.4%, compared to the national average of 7.5%.

• 17.4% (or 12,000) Alaskan young adults have had serious thoughts of suicide, compared to the national average of 11.1%.

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