Substance Use, Misuse, and Disorders-Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In a comprehensive lecture focused on substance use disorders, Dr. Jesse Hinkley, a child and adolescent psychiatrist with expertise in addiction medicine, presented detailed findings and trends related to adolescent and adult substance use, particularly highlighting data specific to Idaho. The session outlined key substances—such as alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis—that dominate substance use rates, with respective lower prevalence rates noted in Idaho compared to national averages.<br /><br />The session further emphasized the alarming rise in opioid-related issues, notably the impact of fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid. It was highlighted that fentanyl has significantly contributed to the increased rates of overdose deaths, especially among youth, despite general declines in adolescent substance use rates. Real-life cases illustrated the pathways through which individuals, often unsuspectingly, get embroiled in opioid use disorder, shedding light on both intentional and unintentional initial exposures to opioids.<br /><br />Further, Dr. Hinkley discussed substance use disorders as mental health conditions defined by persistent issues related to substance use, rather than merely by the frequency of use. While discussing the challenges and barriers within Idaho’s treatment infrastructure, he illustrated that treatment availability is inadequate, especially in rural areas, and often leads to reliance on emergency departments or overstretched primary care resources. He stressed the necessity for medications like methadone and buprenorphine in opioid use disorder management as they significantly reduce overall mortality rates.<br /><br />Dr. Hinkley also touched on the complex challenges faced by pregnant women with substance use issues, underscoring the importance of sensitive, supportive approaches rather than punitive measures to encourage individuals to seek necessary help without fear of losing custody of their children.

Keywords

substance use disorders

adolescent substance use

Idaho

opioid-related issues

fentanyl

opioid use disorder

treatment infrastructure

methadone

buprenorphine

pregnant women

mental health