Dear Office Holder (names will be automatically added on each email),&nbsp;
The United States is facing a crisis of disconnection that is deeply intertwined with substance use. More than 20 million Americans live with a substance use disorder, yet chronic loneliness and social isolation—among the most significant drivers of this crisis—remain largely unaddressed. Severe loneliness is linked to nearly double the mortality risk of those who are well connected, and among individuals receiving treatment for opioid use disorder, a majority report moderate to severe loneliness.&nbsp;
Creative recovery programs, live music experiences, and music therapy offer an effective, accessible response. When integrated into standard care, music therapy has been shown to reduce substance cravings and increase motivation for treatment. Participation in the arts also supports self-expression, strengthens social connection, and helps rebuild a sense of identity—all essential to sustained recovery. Incorporating creativity into care moves the system toward a more comprehensive, whole-person approach.&nbsp;
Despite strong evidence, only 14.7% of substance use treatment programs in the United States offer music therapy, leaving a significant gap in access.&nbsp;
I urge you to work with the Foundation for Social Connection Action Network to advance legislation supporting a demonstration model that expands creative recovery programs, live music experiences, and music therapy services in the communities that need them most.&nbsp;
Sincerely,&nbsp;

Leverage Federal Funding to Support Creative Recovery Programs, Concerts for Recovery Communities, and Music Therapy Services 

The United States is facing a crisis of disconnection that is deeply intertwined with substance use. More than 20 million Americans live with a substance use disorder, yet chronic loneliness and social isolation—among the most significant drivers of this crisis—remain largely unaddressed. Severe loneliness is linked to nearly double the mortality risk of those who are well connected, and among individuals receiving treatment for opioid use disorder, a majority report moderate to severe loneliness. 

Creative recovery programs, live music experiences, and music therapy offer an effective, accessible response. When integrated into standard care, music therapy has been shown to reduce substance cravings and increase motivation for treatment. Participation in the arts also supports self-expression, strengthens social connection, and helps rebuild a sense of identity—all essential to sustained recovery. Incorporating creativity into care moves the system toward a more comprehensive, whole-person approach. 

Despite strong evidence, only 14.7% of substance use treatment programs in the United States offer music therapy, leaving a significant gap in access. 

I urge you to work with the Foundation for Social Connection Action Network to advance legislation supporting a demonstration model that expands creative recovery programs, live music experiences, and music therapy services in the communities that need them most. 

Sincerely,