WISCONSIN — Substance use across Wisconsin has continued to rise in recent years.

The state ranked third in the country for adult alcohol consumption in 2019, according to Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

Opioids have also become an epidemic in the state, with DHS reporting a monthly average of 72 opioid deaths statewide. More than 1,000 people died from opioids in 2020.

To address the statistics, several state agencies launched a new effort to provide information to residents that can help keep them, their families, and their community healthy and safe.

Real Talks Wisconsin is a joint effort between Gov. Tony Evers, DHS and Department of Justice that aims to promote more conversations that prevent and reduce substance use.

“Wisconsinites are helpers by nature and through Real Talks, folks and families will have the tools and information they need to better help their friends, neighbors, and loved ones who are struggling with substance use,” said Evers. “This is about the health and well-being of our families and communities and supporting one another through difficult conversations. By talking about challenges with substance use and helping people on their recovery journey, we can build a healthier state for everyone.”

In the initial phase of Real Talks Wisconsin, DHS is hosting a series of pages on their website with facts about substance use in Wisconsin, conversation tips and actions people can take.

They said future phases will have video guides and printed materials about how to have these talks. The talks involve asking opened-ended questions, having empathy and helping problem-solve.

“We can prevent and reduce substance use by being real with each other,” said DHS Secretary-designee Karen Timberlake. “It’s time to talk about substance use in an open, honest, and caring way. Real talks help create connection. That connection helps create spaces where hope, health, and healing are possible.”

Substance use can often involve a mix of drugs, which is why Real Talks Wisconsin isn’t focused on specific substance; it’s meant to help reduce any type of drug use.

“We must take a comprehensive approach to reducing substance use disorder,” said Attorney General Josh Kaul. “Raising awareness is part of that comprehensive approach, and Real Talks Wisconsin provides tools to help get conversations started in your family and in your community.”

This new program builds on the previous DHS initiative known as Small Talks. That program helps promote conversations about the dangers of underage drinking with children. Real Talks also builds upon the Dose of Reality initative that promotes conversations on the danger of opioids.