Substance Use Counselors Redefining Recovery: Beyond the Stigma of “Addiction”

Substance Use Counselors Redefining Recovery: Beyond the Stigma of “Addiction”

Image shows a casac training online student p working in her internship with a client who is experiencing Stigma of “Addiction”

Substance use disorder treatment is often misunderstood and plagued with the stigma of ‘addiction.’ A person’s use disorder shouldn’t be seen as a scarlet letter forcefully branded on their soul. Instead, their recovery is a valuable signpost guiding others toward their excellent path.

It’s crucial to recognize that substance use disorder is a complex and multifaceted issue that affects people from all walks of life.

Rather than perpetuating shame and judgment, society should extend compassion and support to those struggling with use disorders.

By offering understanding and access to effective treatment options, we can empower individuals to overcome their challenges.

Recovery is a journey that requires dedication, resilience, and a robust support system. It should never be placated by stigma and judgment.

Recovery is a process of growth and self-discovery, where individuals learn to navigate the ups and downs of life without relying on substances. So, let’s view recovery without the stigma of ‘addiction.’

As substance use counselors, it’s up to us to change the narrative. It’s up to us to help society view the recovery process not as a condemnation but as an opportunity for healing and transformation.

Together, we can break free from the stigma of ‘addiction’ and embrace a brighter future.

Let’s embark on a journey to understand is more of a hindrance than a help in the realm of substance use recovery.

The Historical Baggage and Stigma of ‘Addiction

Substance use disorder, a complex and pervasive issue, carries with it a heavy load of historical baggage. Throughout the ages, societies have grappled with the implications and consequences of ‘addictive behaviors,’ ranging from old diagnoses such as, ‘alcoholism,’ ‘drug addiction,’ ‘drug abuse,’ ‘chemical dependence’, and beyond.

The term “addiction” carries with it centuries of misunderstanding and moral judgment. It’s like an old, heavy suitcase filled with notions of corruption and moral failing, impossible to lift without feeling the weight of history.

From ancient civilizations to modern times, substance use disorder has been a pressing concern that has left a lasting impact on individuals, families, and communities.

The roots of this problem can be traced back to various factors, including cultural norms, economic disparities, and psychological vulnerabilities.

Understanding the historical context of Substance use disorder is crucial to comprehend the current challenges we face.

Changing the language we use to discuss use disorders reduces harm and allows people with use disorders to acutely seek out the help they need without fear of judgment and shame.

By examining the past, we can gain insight into the patterns and trends that shaped our understanding of use disorder and inform our efforts to address it.

It’s only through a comprehensive understanding of the historical baggage and stigma of ‘addiction’ that we can hope to develop effective strategies for prevention, intervention, and treatment.

Breaking Free from Stigmatized Shackles

In our quest to end the stigma of substance use, why cling to the term, addiction?

Is it soaked in judgment?

“Addiction” often paints individuals as damaged beyond repair, ignoring their humanity and potential for change.

We know that substance use disorder is a complex and multifaceted issue. However, by perpetuating the stigma of addiction, we often thrust individuals into a disheartening narrative that portrays them as damaged beyond repair.

However, this portrayal fails to acknowledge their inherent humanity and their vast potential. It is crucial to recognize that substance use disorder doesn’t define a person but instead represents one aspect of their life.

Behind the struggles and hardships lies a person filled with dreams, aspirations, and the capacity for growth. The prevailing misconception that individuals with substance use disorder are irreparably broken perpetuates the stigma of addiction and hinders their path to recovery.

We can create an environment that fosters compassion, understanding, and support by shifting our perspective and acknowledging their humanity.

Through this lens, we can begin dismantling the barriers that prevent individuals from accessing the help and resources they need to reclaim their lives.

Substance use disorder, though challenging, shouldn’t overshadow the resilience and potential of people.

A New Lexicon for Healing

Embracing  terms like “substance use disorder” or “people with use disorders” align with a modern understanding of addiction and substance abuse.

These terms have gained prominence in recent years as society’s understanding of addiction has evolved. Instead of using outdated terms such as “drug addict” or “alcoholic,” which often carry negative connotations and perpetuate the Stigma of “Addiction.”

The shift towards person-first language helps to humanize individuals struggling with substance use disorder.

By using terms like “substance use disorder,” we recognize that ‘addiction’ is a complex medical condition that affects individuals from all walks of life.

It highlights the importance of treating use disorders as a health issue rather than a moral failing. Furthermore, person-first language emphasizes the individual’s humanity and promotes empathy and understanding.

As we continue to learn more about substance use disorder and its impact on individuals and communities, using these terms allows us to communicate in a more compassionate and inclusive manner.

The Power of Words ican End the Stigma of “Addiction”

Words are not just a means of communication; they are the architects of our perception.

By shifting our language, we can transform our approach to treatment and recovery, fostering a more compassionate and effective healing environment.

By shifting our language, we have the power to completely transform our approach to treatment and recovery. Words hold immense power, and the way we communicate about mental health and addiction can greatly impact the individuals seeking help.

If we replace judgmental and stigmatizing language with compassionate and understanding terms, we can create an environment that fosters healing and support. It is crucial to recognize that addiction and mental health conditions are not moral failings or character flaws, but rather complex medical issues that require proper treatment and care.

By reframing the conversation and using language that emphasizes empathy and acceptance, we can break down barriers and encourage those in need to seek help without fear of judgment or shame.

Moreover, this shift in language can also help to destigmatize mental health and addiction, promoting a more inclusive and supportive society.

So let’s choose our words carefully and pave the way for a more compassionate approach to end the Stigma of “Addiction” treatment and recovery.

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The Importance of Safe Injection / Consumption Sites in Harm Reduction

The Importance of Safe Injection / Consumption Sites in Harm Reduction

Blogpost banner for the blog post: Discover How Drug Counselors Save Lives! 🌟 Learn Why Safe Injection Sites are Crucial for Harm Reduction.

Image source: Supervised injection stations at Vancouver’s Insite. (Photo: Insite)

Safe Injection Sites? Good Or Bad?

 

Substance abuse and addiction are complex issues that require comprehensive and compassionate solutions.

One such solution that has recently gained traction is establishing safe injection sites or consumption facilities.

These safe consumption sites, operating for over 30 years in 100 locations worldwide, provide a supervised environment for individuals to use drugs to reduce harm and save lives.

This article will explore the importance of safe injection sites in harm reduction, their impact on overdose death rates, public drug use, disease transmission, and the promotion of treatment referrals.

 

Understanding Safe Injection Sites

 

Safe injection sites, also known as safe consumption spaces or drug consumption rooms, are professionally supervised healthcare facilities where individuals can consume drugs under the supervision of trained staff.

These facilities aim to provide a safe and hygienic environment for drug use, reducing the risk of disease transmission through unhygienic injection or other routes of administration.

They also seek to prevent drug-related overdose deaths and connect high-risk drug users with addiction treatment referrals and other health and social services.

 

The Need for Harm Reduction

 

The emergence of the human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) epidemic in the 1980s highlighted the urgent need for harm reduction strategies in response to drug injection and related health risks.

Harm reduction approaches, such as outreach, peer education, clean needle provision, and medications for opiate use disorder, started gaining wider acceptance throughout Europe in the 1990s.

However, establishing safe injection sites has been a more controversial response, with concerns raised about potential negative consequences.

Photo of the inside of a safe injection site Onpoint in NYC. On the wall is painted This Site Saves Lives. Image source:Photo by Seth Wenig, AP
Image source: Photo by Seth Wenig, AP

Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions of Safe Consumption Facilities

 

One of the main concerns surrounding safe consumption sites is the fear that they might encourage drug use or delay individuals from seeking treatment.

However, research and real-world evidence have shown that these concerns are largely unfounded.

Safe injection sites allow individuals to use drugs in a controlled environment, reducing the risks associated with public drug use, such as overdose deaths and the presence of discarded needles.

Moreover, these facilities have effectively connected individuals with addiction treatment programs and promoted access to other healthcare and social services.

 

Impact on Overdose Death Rates

 

Overdose deaths have reached alarming levels in many communities, with the United States experiencing a devastating increase in fatalities in recent years.

Safe consumption sites have proven to be an effective intervention in reducing overdose death rates.

These facilities are equipped with trained staff who can intervene promptly in the event of an overdose, providing emergency care and potentially saving lives.

Director of Onpoint, NYCs first safe consumption site, Sam Rivera, states, “Health professionals have used Naloxone to reverse more than 700 overdoses at the state’s two overdose prevention centers in New York City since they opened in 2021.”

Think about it! That’s 700 fathers, mothers, husbands, wives, sons, and daughters. To contest the public view that overdose prevention centers are not the best treatment options, Rivera states, “(overdose prevention centers) allow them (people with use disorders) to stay alive while they work on their lives safely… And work on, for many people, reducing and many others stopping completely. But we need them (PWUD) alive to get them there.”

Additionally, the presence of healthcare professionals allows for immediate access to naloxone, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses.

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Reducing Public Drug Use and Needle Disposal Issues

One of the significant benefits of safe injection sites is their ability to reduce public drug use and the associated public order problems.

By providing a designated space for safe drug injection, these facilities help alleviate the presence of open drug scenes and the related issues of discarded needles and public drug use.

This improves the overall safety and cleanliness of public spaces and reduces the general population’s exposure to drug-related activities.

 

Preventing Disease Transmission

Unhygienic drug injecting practices, such as sharing needles, significantly contribute to transmitting bloodborne diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C.

Safe consumption sites prevent disease transmission by providing sterile injecting equipment and promoting safe drug use practices.

These facilities also offer counseling services before, during, and after drug consumption, educating individuals on harm reduction strategies and promoting safer behaviors.

 

Promoting Referrals to Treatment Programs

A key objective of safe consumption sites is to connect high-risk drug users with addiction treatment and other healthcare services.

By establishing a non-judgmental and supportive environment, these facilities encourage individuals to seek help and engage in treatment programs.

The presence of trained staff, including healthcare professionals, case managers, and counselors, enables immediate referrals to detoxification, drug dependence treatment, and opioid substitution programs.

This holistic approach to care increases the likelihood of successful recovery and long-term rehabilitation.

 

Safe Consumption Sites Equal Cost Savings and Positive Community Impact

Investing in safe injection sites can result in significant cost savings for communities.

By preventing overdose deaths and reducing the transmission of bloodborne diseases, the burden on healthcare systems decreases.

Emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and the long-term costs associated with managing chronic diseases related to drug use can be significantly reduced.

Moreover, safe injection sites positively impact the community by improving public health, reducing public drug use, and promoting the overall well-being and safety of the population.

 

Conclusion

Safe injection sites play a vital role in harm reduction strategies, providing a safe and supervised environment for individuals to consume drugs.

Safe consumption facilities have effectively reduced overdose death rates, prevented disease transmission, and promoted treatment referrals.

By addressing concerns and misconceptions, safe injection sites offer a compassionate and evidence-based solution to the complex challenges surrounding substance abuse and addiction.

Investing in safe consumption sites saves lives and contributes to healthier and safer communities. It is essential that policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the community at extensive work together to support and expand the availability of safe injection sites as part of a comprehensive harm reduction approach.

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Announcement: HRSA BHWET Grant Award Funded

Announcement: HRSA BHWET Grant Award Funded

John Makohen

John Makohen

VP/ COO

John is Advanced CASAC in NYS,  CASAC Educator, and Digital Entrepreneur. Besides creating content and improving addiction counseling educational experiences he enjoys learning, running, and relaxing with his spouse.

Announcement:

HRSA BHWET Grant Awarded

14
September, 2021
Announcement/News

 

We are proud to announce that Educational Enhancement was awarded one of 43 nationwide grants funded through the HRSA Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training (BHWET) Program for Paraprofessionals.

Press Release from  A.Maria Mendez, CEO of Felmari, Inc d/b/a Educational Enhancement. We are proud to announce that Educational Enhancement was awarded one of 43 national grants funded through the HRSA Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training (BHWET) Program for Paraprofessionals.  Educational Enhancement will apply the HRSA BHWET grant award to develop and expand community-based experiential training to increase the supply of students preparing to become behavioral health professionals such as a CASAC – Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselors throughout the five boroughs that are New York City over the next four year. Educational Enhancement is an addiction counselor certificate program Educational Enhancement is an OASAS-approved CASAC education and training provider (0415).

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The BHWET grant award aims to increase the supply of behavioral health professionals while also improving the distribution of a quality behavioral health workforce, thereby increasing access to behavioral health services. A. Maria Mendez, CEO said,

We are honored to participate in the BHWET program. The award will allow us to expand and enhance access to high-quality education and training over the next four years.”

The 6-month didactic technology-based program will encourage, educate, and empower specifically trained new professionals to deliver quality counseling services to those at risk for developing a substance use disorder and other behavioral health challenges.

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Eligible students chosen for the BHWET grant program will receive an integrated approach of education and training geared towards obtaining CASAC credentials and addressing behavioral health prevention, treatment, and recovery services, including but not limited to Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and Substance Use Disorder (SUD), for Transitional Age Youth (TAY), 16-24.  Along with tuition, training materials, technical assistance, payment for initial CASAC application, and fee for the CASAC exam, students will receive all the necessary tools needed to actualize the objective of the BHWET Program for Professionals.

Applicants for the BHWET grant program must meet the minimum set of academic standards and commit to serving their 90-day internship in the underserved geographic areas in NYCs five boroughs – Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Staten Island, and Queens. Our students will receive weekly supervision and coaching from the project director and the field placement supervisor. 

Get your CASAC online at Educational enhancement and become a certified addictions counselor to help teens struggling with addiction.

Join our email list to learn more about Educational Enhancement and the BHWET program. Those with questions and concerns about participating in the BHWET program should click here.

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