Suicide and Opioids: Intersections and Opportunities for Prevention-Recording Presentation

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In the webinar titled "Suicide and Opioids: Intersections and Opportunities for Prevention," Ellie Stout, the U.S. Director of Community Suicide Prevention at Education Development Center, discussed the connection between suicide and opioid use disorders. She highlighted that individuals with substance use disorders have a significantly higher risk of suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts compared to those without substance use disorders. The risk is even higher for individuals with opioid use disorders. Stout emphasized the importance of addressing both suicide and substance use disorders in clinical settings. She mentioned the need for screening for both risk factors, implementing safety planning, and ensuring access to care and support. Stout also discussed the role of health systems in suicide prevention and the need for comprehensive approaches that integrate suicide care and substance use disorder treatment. She recommended the Zero Suicide Model as a gold standard for systems change in improving suicide care. Additionally, Stout emphasized the importance of collaboration and community engagement in prevention efforts. She discussed the role of healthcare providers and health systems in supporting prevention initiatives, as well as the need for collaboration with other stakeholders, including peer support networks, law enforcement, and advocacy organizations. Throughout the presentation, Stout referred to various resources and tools available for suicide prevention and shared insights from research studies and national strategies. She highlighted the importance of addressing the underlying distress and risk factors that contribute to both suicide and substance use disorders, with the goal of promoting resilience and reducing suffering in order to prevent these outcomes.

Keywords

Suicide and Opioids

Intersections

Opportunities for Prevention

Substance Use Disorders

Suicidal Thoughts

Safety Planning

Access to Care

Zero Suicide Model

Health Systems

Collaboration