Addressing Stigma in Substance Use Disorder Treatment-Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Chelsea Kamara, a social worker and Inupiaq descendant with the Opioid Response Network, led a session on stigma and substance use disorder treatment. She highlighted the impact of stigma on individuals seeking treatment, communities, and the healthcare system. Emphasizing the need to change language and perspectives around substance use disorder, she discussed the various forms of stigma within oneself, communities, clinicians, and society. Chelsea also addressed the importance of understanding and addressing historical trauma and colonialism's impact on Indigenous communities' higher rates of substance use disorder. She stressed the role of education, personal stories, and positive narratives in reducing stigma and promoting effective treatment approaches, such as medications for addiction treatment. The session concluded with a reflection on how societal attitudes towards substance use disorders differ from other health conditions, advocating for compassion and holistic support for individuals struggling with addiction.

Keywords

stigma

substance use disorder

Indigenous communities

historical trauma

addiction treatment

education

holistic support