Page 10 - BusinessWest November 28, 2022

Editorial
Another Big Step Forward
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Just about all the dust has settled from this November’s election — finally, and thankfully. And now is the time for analysis.
And while much of the focus is on the national scene and what the results from this midterm election mean mov- ing forward, what happened in the Bay State, where there was no suspense, is also intriguing and worthy of note.
In short, it was a milestone day for women — and the state itself.
Indeed, women won five of the six state-wide seats up for grabs. Maura Healey, the first woman elected governor of the Commonwealth (and the first openly lesbian gover- nor in the U.S., a milestone she shares with Oregon Gov.- elect Tina Kotek), garnered much of the attention, but she was only part of the story.
Healey’s running mate, Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll, was elected lieutenant governor; Deb Goldberg was re-elected treasurer; Andrea Campbell became the first Black person elected attorney general; and Diana DiZoglio was elected auditor.
Longtime state Auditor Bill Galvin was the only man to win statewide office, and he defeated a woman, Rayla Campbell, in doing so.
So what does all this mean? First of all, more women are being elected to these offices because more women are run- ning for these offices, which is a very positive step forward.
Before Tuesday, only nine women had served in the constitutional offices in the state’s history, and that’s largely because comparatively few women had the desire, the wherewithal, the confidence, and, in many cases, the sup- port to seek such offices.
All that has changed in recent years, and we’re seeing
Opinion
it not just with statewide offices, but local offices as well. Michelle Wu became the first woman elected mayor of Boston this past year, and locally, several cities now have women in the corner office, including Easthampton and Pittsfield.
There are many reasons why more women are step- ping forward and running for office, including a host of leadership programs, including several locally that encour- age individuals to get involved, be active in their cities and towns, and, yes, take leadership roles.
Whatever the reason, getting more women — and more people of color and people with diverse backgrounds — involved in government, on both the local and statewide levels, can only be good for everyone involved because it means that more voices, and different kinds of voices, are being heard.
We’ve seen this in business, of course, and with very positive outcomes. Today, more women are sitting on the boards of major companies and nonprofits, more women are leading companies, and more women are taking leader- ship positions in realms once dominated by men, including construction, architecture, and even IT, although that is one sector where women are still looking to break through in large numbers.
Someday, perhaps not that far into the future, seeing women take five of the six — or even all six — of the Com- monwealth’s constitutional offices won’t even be newswor- thy. It’s only newsworthy now because it’s never happened before.
And it’s very positive news indeed, and a huge step for- ward for Massachusetts and all its residents. v
Set Boundaries to Maintain Recovery
By Cristina Rivera, LICSW
The holidays can be a wonder- ful time of the year. For some, they mean seasonal gather-
ings and reconnecting with loved ones. For others, however, they can be emotionally and physically chal- lenging, and this is especially true for many who are in recovery from substance use.
Having a plan for self-care and adhering to strategies that keep one healthy are key for all of us in enjoying the annual celebrations fall and winter bring.
I encourage people to not feel pres- sured to say “yes” to every obligation, whether that means attendance at a social function, family gathering, or work event. Individuals in recovery often know what environments will assist them in maintaining sobriety or allow the space to not use substances. Set boundaries and choose events that
support your goals.
If you attend an event where sub-
stances may be easily accessible, pre- pare in advance. What’s your escape strategy if needed? Plan your arrival and departure, whom you will spend time with, and whom you will not. Having your own transportation allows you to leave if you are feel-
ing uncomfortable. Having someone along to chat with helps if you are feel- ing the need for extra support.
If you opt out of an event, remem- ber that you can still enjoy time with friends and loved ones. Plan to meet where you feel both comfortable and safe in maintaining your recovery goals.
The holidays may also bring feel- ings of loneliness as well as negative thoughts that could lead to using substances. I stress with my clients the importance of maintaining con-
tact with people who support them in their recovery. This may be a mentor, therapist, friend, or fellow members of a support group — anyone in their life who is a positive influence and supports their sobriety. A support- ive network can mean the difference between remaining substance-free or using a substance again.
It is possible to celebrate the holi- day season and maintain your person- al goals in recovery. Keeping to your routine and seeking support when needed are going to be very impor- tant. The gift of life is invaluable, and during the time of giving, the greatest gift to give yourself is decision making that maintains your recovery goals. u
Cristina Rivera is director of Outpatient Services, Substance Use Disorders at MiraVista Behavioral Health Center in Holyoke.
10 NOVEMBER 28, 2022
OPINION
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