7547-1E Addiction, Treatment and Policy Part 1-Slides

Slides
Pdf Summary
The document outlines efforts and strategies to address the opioid crisis and stimulant use disorders through the Opioid Response Network (ORN), a SAMHSA-funded initiative. This includes community engagement, technical assistance, and evidence-based prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery support. The ORN provides local consultants across various states and territories, guided by regional Technology Transfer Specialists who implement evidence-based practices.<br /><br />The learning objectives for the related course focus on understanding and overcoming barriers to addiction recovery, recognizing effective treatments and recovery support services, and addressing the stigma associated with addiction. The discussion highlights the significant increase in alcohol-related deaths and addresses various questions surrounding addiction as a disease, the efficacy of treatments like AA and rehab, harm reduction methods, and perspectives on legalization and drug use control.<br /><br />Terminology plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions about addiction. Terms like "substance use disorder" are preferred over stigmatizing terms like "substance abuser," as they reduce blame and stigma, emphasize medical issues, and enhance treatment engagement. The document stresses the importance of removing stigmatizing terminology from not only public discourse but also from official names of institutions and policies.<br /><br />The course also addresses the intersection of addiction with societal factors like stigma, public health policies, and federal drug policy shifts over the past 50 years. It highlights the public health approach that prioritizes treatment and recovery over punitive measures. The enduring stigma and discrimination against individuals with substance use disorders impede their treatment and recovery efforts, necessitating comprehensive changes in language and societal attitudes.<br /><br />Efforts to reduce stigma include educational initiatives about the biological nature of addiction, changing language to more accurately reflect the condition, and integrating individuals in recovery into societal roles to dismantle stereotypes. The document concludes with guidelines for continuing education and accreditation for professionals dealing with addiction, focusing on non-stigmatizing language and inclusive, supportive environments.
Keywords
Opioid Response Network
SAMHSA
community engagement
technical assistance
evidence-based practices
addiction stigma
substance use disorder
harm reduction
public health policy
recovery support