Solutions Desk

Natasha's full story

Natasha Gamache tried a lot of different things to find recovery from substance misuse. Finally, after listening to one woman's story, she found the solution she needed. Here's her story. She hopes it might be the one that will help others find their answers, too.

12-steps and lots of detours on the road to recovery

Natasha grew up surrounded by alcohol and abuse. By 11, she was drinking to help manage her anxiety and depression. Now, 26 years later, she’s in recovery and in college. Her journey was long and filled with partial solutions, but the final 12-steps helped her begin to heal.

Transforming perspectives on trauma through paintings of hope

Traumatic childhood experiences can lead to problems later in life, like addiction. But these problems don't define a person, and stories that start with trauma can end with hope. A new set of murals illustrates the transformation of seven Alaskans, and the process of creating them transformed the artists themselves.

Covey Cafe gives young people a chance to shine

A new coffee house is teaching at-risk youth life and work skills. This story was produced by residents of Covenant House, a youth shelter in Anchorage.

Taking action to reduce substance misuse

Substance use disorders are diseases caused by many factors. Preventing and treating them requires input from everyone, not just law enforcement and health professionals. Those are some of the key messages in the state’s new opioid action plan. On Talk of Alaska, we’ll discuss the plan and the ways you can be part of the solutions.