Dear Friends,

As we approach the autumn season, many of us welcome a reprieve from what seemed to be an unusually warm and humid summer with very little relief from an occasional cool spell. September marks Substance Use Recovery Month. It is important for us to increase our awareness of substance use disorders (SUDs) in our older population. The op-ed in this newsletter edition provides an overview of this challenge and its impact on people as they age. During the pandemic, we have seen an increase in SUDs across all age groups, often due to isolation, depression, and anxiety. Professionals must be prepared to support and guide people with SUDs and their families. Most importantly, we must recognize problems as early as possible and help people get the appropriate care.

Have a wonderful fall season.

Best,