WA’s new drug law could help needle exchanges — or restrict them
Facilities like Blue Mountain that serve small cities and surrounding rural areas are the basis for a model of care known as “health engagement hubs” that the Washington State Department of Health hopes will help address the fentanyl crisis, reduce overdoses and offer a pathway to treatment to those who want it. There’s a worry, however, that centers like Blue Mountain – and similar programs such as one run by Willapa Behavioral Health and Wellness in Grays Harbor County – might be threatened by restrictive local ordinances that would hinder their work. The sweeping drug possession law passed by the Legislature in May includes a provision that could allow local jurisdictions to limit harm reduction services. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Andrew Engelson)
Young adults on medication for depression, anxiety surge in Seattle area
The use of medication to combat depression and anxiety increased sharply in the Seattle area during the pandemic, and new data shows one group is largely responsible for that increase: young adults. Rates of depression and anxiety surged as the pandemic took hold, leading to an increase in prescriptions for medications to help people cope with these mental health conditions. The data also shows young adults in Seattle rank among those most medicated nationwide for depression and anxiety. Continue reading at Seattle Times. (Kylie Cooper)
Rents in Washington show signs of stabilizing
As apartments built over the past few years open to tenants rent prices across Washington are leveling off, a new analysis of the state’s rental market found. Still, the number of people behind on rent remains high, worrying advocates who say more is needed to help keep tenants in their homes. Bills to limit large rent hikes failed to pass during this year’s legislative session, but some lawmakers have indicated they plan to bring up those proposals again in 2024. “It’s going to be another session on housing next year,” Senate Housing Chair Patty Kuderer, D-Bellevue, said Tuesday. “We’ll see what comes out.” Continue reading at WA State Standard. (Getty Images)
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WA’s new drug law could help needle exchanges – or restrict them