8066 Substance Use Disorders: An Overview Training Course Faculty Version-Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Suzuki, an associate professor at Harvard Medical School and Director of the Division of Addiction Psychiatry at Brigham and Women's Hospital, discussed addiction as a chronic disease at a recent presentation. He highlighted the ongoing opioid crisis, emphasizing the transition from prescribed opioids to illicit drugs like fentanyl. Dr. Suzuki explained addiction through the lens of neurobiology, focusing on cravings, loss of control, and the implications of substance use on brain function. He discussed the chronic nature of addiction, comparing it to illnesses like diabetes, where ongoing management is essential. Key treatment options, especially for opioid use, include medications like buprenorphine and methadone, which can significantly reduce cravings and mortality rates. Dr. Suzuki emphasized a comprehensive treatment approach, incorporating medication, counseling, and harm reduction strategies. He also highlighted the importance of understanding addiction within medical systems to reduce stigma and improve access to care. The session underscored the need for trauma-informed care, reduction of stigmatizing language, and considered the dynamic nature of behavior change in addiction treatment. A follow-up Q&A and survey were planned to gather feedback for further educational sessions.

Keywords

addiction

opioid crisis

neurobiology

buprenorphine

methadone

harm reduction

trauma-informed care

stigma reduction