Substance Use Disorders and Mental Health Treatment
Untreated mental illness or substance use disorders and their related problems have clear and negative impacts on businesses and urban residential living. Mental illness and substance use disorders often result in increased poverty, homelessness, and the breakdown of families.
We all share in the ultimate costs for dealing with the issues of substance use disorders and mental health. For example, an individual without substance abuse treatment can cost a community approximately $22,000 in emergency room visits, criminal justice services, and child welfare every year. By ensuring adequate treatment, we can reduce that cost to an estimated $2,430.
The City of Tacoma has joined jurisdictions all over the state to implement a 0.1% increase in the sales tax (This is only 1/10th of one percent or one penny for every $10.00 purchase.) The money under this section must be used solely for the purpose of providing for substance use disorder or mental health treatment programs and services that may include therapeutic court programs, case management, and housing.
Having an engaged, vibrant, and productive citizenry is at the heart of a thriving community and economic development.
Suicide Prevention Resources