Life is not a sitcom, where problems are solved in less than 30 minutes and somewhere in between commercials, particularly when it comes to the issues of mental health and substance abuse.

Many hours of community meetings have gone into the vital work needed to find solutions to mental health, substance abuse and the meth problem on Lopez. Earlier this summer over 150 members of the Lopez community met in various meetings to discuss concerns and solutions related to the support and protection of community members affected by these concerns.

“It’s exciting to report that great things have come out of the ‘Let’s Talk Lopez’ community meetings,” said Georgeana Cook, executive coordinator of the Lopez Island Prevention Coalition, organizer of the meetings. For those who have participated thus far – their efforts, ideas and continued diligence have made a difference. The feedback has been positive and changes are beginning to happen.

“The deputies report that since our early summer meetings the tip line calls to the Sheriff’s Office have increased. Whatever you’re doing, keep doing it, is what I hear from law enforcement.”

Less obvious changes are also being noted. What has been done on Lopez is now part of county-wide conversation about resources. A grant has been received to address youth mental health through a free community-wide training, and anyone who works with youth is invited to participate. Youth in the community are stepping forward as they ask for help for their friends who need help with substance abuse. The ripple of conversation has begun a wave of change.

With the end of summer in sight and fall just around the corner, it’s time to move forward with the great ideas and suggestions that have been presented. Thursday, Aug. 27 will mark the first of the second series of meetings for the broader issues of mental health and substance abuse. All who were previously involved are invited, and those who would like to participate are welcome. Solid feedback and great ideas have also laid the foundation for those focusing on meth, and their next series of meetings will begin Thursday, Sept. 3. All meetings will be held from 6-8 p.m. at Woodmen Hall. ALL community members are invited to participate.

Mental health and substance abuse meetings will be held on the following days: Thursday, Aug. 27, Thursday, Sept. 9, and Wednesday, Sept. 23. Meth meetings-Thursday, Sept. 3 and Thursday, Sept. 17.