Print Media
DESCRIPTION
Fatal overdoses and suicides are two of the most severe behavioral health outcomes. They are also growing more common. Suicide rates increased 41% nationally from 1999 to 2022, while fatal overdose rates increased 440%.1 Reducing fatal overdose and suicide is a top priority for the behavioral health field. Fortunately, suicide and overdose share many risk and protective factors. In fact, many interventions designed to address one outcome can simultaneously help address the other. Addiction treatment professionals can play a key role, as ongoing substance use is a shared risk factor for both outcomes.2
To download the entire version of the fact sheet, please use the Overdose and Suicide button on the right side of the page.
Published: January 2, 2025
Multimedia
DESCRIPTION
SCREENING, BRIEF INTERVENTION, and REFERRAL TO TREATMENT (SBIRT)
SBIRT is a comprehensive public health approach for delivering prevention, early intervention and referral to treatment services to people using substances in a harmful or risky way. During this training we will be discussing the conceptual framework of SBIRT as a public health model and its impact as a system change initiative. We will also review the skills necessary to provide screenings, brief interventions, and extended brief interventions.
The view the recorded webinar, click the View Resource button on the right hand side.
Stay tuned for an upcoming SBIRT Learning Collaborative event!
GUEST SPEAKER
Billie Jo Smith, MS, LPC
Billie Jo currently serves as a Program Manager for the Behavioral Health Integration team at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center’s Health Plan. Billie Jo has worked in the addiction treatment field for over 15 years, first as a clinician, and later a supervisor and manager in various clinical settings including residential and outpatient treatment facilities. Billie Jo trains and consults with providers in the behavioral and physical health fields across the United States. Billie Jo conducts all levels of Motivational Interviewing (MI) training up to and including coaching and supervision. Billie Jo trains MIA-STEP (Motivational Interviewing Assessment: Supervisory Tools for Enhancing Proficiency), SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment), Technology-Based Clinical Supervision and other topics relevant to the treatment of substance use and co-occurring disorders. Billie Jo has been a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT) since 2018. Billie Jo is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Pennsylvania.
Published: December 18, 2024
Multimedia
DESCRIPTION
Cannabis is one of the most widely used psychoactive substance globally. The harm perception towards cannabis use is at its lowest in 40 years, especially in pregnancy individuals who may use it for a variety of pregnancy related symptoms. The webinar will elaborate on some of the risks associated with cannabis use in pregnancy.
The view the recorded webinar, click the View Resource button on the right hand side.
The accompanying fact sheet will be available soon.
GUEST SPEAKER
Vishesh Agarwal, MD
Dr. Vishesh Agarwal is an award winning board-certified general adult psychiatrist, with additional board certification in addiction psychiatry and obesity medicine. He received the Delaware Today Top doctors award in 2022. Along with his clinical work, Dr. Agarwal supervises and mentors trainee physicians and student learners. He is an invited speaker at regional, and national conferences, and has published in peer-reviewed journals.
Published: December 12, 2024
Multimedia
DESCRIPTION
This webinar will provide an in-depth examination of the intersection between overdose and suicide risk, emphasizing both the shared and distinct factors that affect individuals. It will identify the communities and populations facing the largest risks and emphasize the urgency of acting before these risks grow even more. Participants will gain insights into how mental health, trauma, social determinants of health (SDOH), and substance use disorders (SUD) contribute to risk, as well as how these elements shape effective prevention and intervention strategies. This session is tailored for health professionals seeking to expand their understanding of these critical issues and strengthen their approaches to supporting those at risk.
The view the recorded webinar, click the View Resource button on the right hand side.
You can also access the accompanying fact sheet here.
GUEST SPEAKERS : CARNEVALE ASSOCIATES
Emily Patton MSc, PgDip, holds a Masters of Science in Abnormal and Clinical Psychology from Swansea University and a Postgraduate Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Edinburgh. She offers significant professional experience in the fields of public policy development and analysis, criminal justice research, data collection and analysis, program development, and performance management.
Olivia Stuart, LMSW is a research assistant at Carnevale Associates, LLC. She supports the training & technical assistance (T/TA) team in the development and delivery of knowledge translation products across multiple projects on a range of behavioral health topics. Olivia has several years of experience supporting research and evaluations focusing on emerging adults and criminal justice issues. Olivia also served as a Graduate Research Supervisor at George Mason University and worked for several years in LGBTQ+ advocacy and fundraising. Olivia holds a Master of Social Work from George Mason University.
Published: December 10, 2024
Print Media
DESCRIPTION
In 2022, over 150,000 people were in the custody of jails and prisons in the Central East Region (DE, MD, PA, VA, WV, and DC).1 Among those detained or incarcerated, over 15% had an opioid use disorder (OUD), compared to 1.9% to 3.6% of each jurisdictions’ general population.2,3 Despite a clear need, there are significant barriers to receiving treatment services in correctional settings – especially for medications for OUD (MOUD). Expanding access to MOUD can reduce illicit opioid use, prevent overdose, and help people stay in treatment after returning to the community.4
To download the entire version of the fact sheet, please use the Expanding OUD Tx button on the right side of the page.
Published: September 20, 2024
Print Media
DESCRIPTION
As public support and acceptance of sexual and gender minority (SGM) people has grown, more and more facets of the community have begun to disclose their identities publicly. The terms that SGM individuals use to identify themselves are numerous and ever evolving, but respectfully using and discussing these terms doesn’t need to be intimidating. This webinar will introduce a variety of current identifying terms using real-world examples, explore the reasons behind SGM individuals’ varying levels of disclosure, and prepare providers to confidently engage with these emerging identities.
To download the entire version of the fact sheet, use the Emerging Identities button on the right side of the page.
Additional Resources
To view the webinar that accompanies this fact sheet, use the button below.
Below is an article shared by Kate Bishop, MSSA, the subject matter expert on this topic.
Multiple Minority Stress and LGBT Community Resilience among Sexual Minority Men
Published: September 15, 2024
Print Media
DESCRIPTION
Microaggressions are subtle expressions that create barriers to recovery and discourage help-seeking. These can manifest as internalized stigma, verbal comments, behavioral actions, or environmental cues. Types include self/internalized microaggressions, like thoughts such as “It’s all my fault”; verbal microaggressions, such as “They brought this upon themselves”; behavioral microaggressions, where individuals receive differential treatment; and environmental microaggressions, characterized by a lack of representation and recovery resources. Cultural awareness is vital in addressing stigma, as beliefs about addiction significantly influence attitudes toward help-seeking. Different cultures may hold varied perspectives on substance use disorders and recovery approaches, affecting individuals' willingness to engage in treatment. To combat stigma, a multifaceted approach is needed: community collaboration, culturally relevant practices, public awareness campaigns, and promoting empathy. By embracing these strategies, communities can mitigate the effects of stigma microaggressions and foster environments that support recovery and social integration.
To download the entire version of the fact sheet, please use the Microaggressions button on the right side of the page.
Published: September 15, 2024
Print Media
Research has shown what sexual minority and gender diverse community members have always known: families and caregivers play a critical role in wellbeing and lifelong health for LGBTQ+ young people. Family acceptance and support can be an enormous asset to a youth who is struggling; likewise, family rejection can have devastating effects in physical and emotional health, future orientation, risk behaviors, and resilience. Learn more about the evidence that strong family support in adolescence matters for a happy and healthy LGBTQ adulthood, as well as intervention strategies and tips for working with rejecting families.
To download the entire version of the factsheet, use the Fostering Family Acceptance button on the right side of the page.
This factsheet is now available in Spanish. Translation services by the National Hispanic and Latino Behavioral Health Center of Excellence. Traducido por:
To download the full version of the Spanish factsheet, use the Fostering Family Acceptance-Spanish button on the right side of the page.
Published: July 17, 2024
Print Media
DESCRIPTION
The COVID-19 pandemic fundamentally shifted the health and wellbeing of every human on planet Earth. LGBTQ community members were impacted early in the crisis, and continue to show disparities in contracting the virus, as well as higher rates of death, disability, substance use disorders, and suicide related to pandemic distress. These impacts were not evenly distributed across all LGBTQ people, however, but were concentrated among queer and transgender of color and gender diverse people in general. New research is emerging that points to both expected and surprising impacts of the disease unique to LGBTQ people. This webinar will explore LGBTQ population dynamics, needs, and ways to support vulnerable community members as the world population emerges into the post-COVID reality.
Please use the download attachment 1 button on the right side of the page to view the entire factsheet in English.
This factsheet is now available in Spanish. Translation services by the National Hispanic and Latino Behavioral Health Center of Excellence. Traducido por:
To download the full version of the Spanish factsheet, use the Download Attachment 2 button on the right side of the page.
Published: March 15, 2024
Print Media
The Central East ATTC is committed to fostering a positive and affirming environment that acknowledges LGBTQ identities and realities. Though nearly every care provider expresses the intention of creating a welcoming environment for LGBTQ clients, good intentions alone are not enough to maintain a practice free of prejudice, repair poor office forms and protocols, minimize microaggressions, and eradicate disrespect for the lived experiences of sexual and gender minority community members. When a member of any marginalized group enters your setting, they are scanning for potential threats, hazards, and disappointments with their care as a reflexive gesture of self-protection. This factsheet provides an overview of indicators for creating safety and engagement techniques that can help build trust and reassurance for your LGBTQ clients. Download this factsheet to learn more.
To download the factsheet in English, please use the download attachment 1 on the right side of the page.
This factsheet is now available in Spanish. Translation services by the National Hispanic and Latino Behavioral Health Center of Excellence. Traducido por:
To download the full version of the Spanish factsheet, use the Download Attachment 2 button on the right side of the page.
Published: March 15, 2024
Print Media
DESCRIPTION
Though trauma is linked with Substance Use Disorder for people from all walks of life, LGBTQ communities experience unique sources and dynamics of trauma, as well as distinct influences and social consequences that impact the prevalence of Substance Use Disorders within the population. These may include family rejection and estrangement, increased incidence of childhood sexual abuse, identity discernment stress and faith-related shame, survivor’s guilt for those who lost dozens of friends in the early days of the AIDS epidemic, and many other special situations. This webinar will highlight some of the dimensions of trauma specific to LGBTQ individuals, substance use behaviors linked to those events, and some of the unique sites of resilience and support available within LGBTQ communities.
Please use the download attachment 1 button on the right side of the page to to view the entire English factsheet.
This factsheet is now available in Spanish. Translation services by the National Hispanic and Latino Behavioral Health Center of Excellence. Traducido por:
To download the full version of the Spanish factsheet, use the Download Attachment 2 button on the right side of the page.
Published: March 15, 2024
Print Media
Xylazine (or “tranq”) is a non-opioid sedative and tranquilizer only approved for use in veterinary medicine. However, over the past several years, human consumption of xylazine has begun rapidly increasing. Although initially only identified in illicit drug supplies in limited areas, xylazine has been found in 48 states as of April 2023. Xylazine is frequently, though not exclusively, used in conjunction with opioids, particularly fentanyl—due to xylazine’s ability to prolong their effects. Xylazine use presents many potential dangers to people, including an increased risk of overdose and the development of necrotizing tissue damage. This factsheet details key concerns, overdose responses, harm reduction techniques, and more.
To download the factsheet in English, please click the "Understanding Xylazine" button on the right side of the page.
This factsheet is now available in Spanish. Translation services by the National Hispanic and Latino Behavioral Health Center of Excellence. Traducido por:
To download the full version of the Spanish factsheet, please click the "Comprender la xilacina" button on the right side of the page.
Published: March 15, 2024
eNewsletter or Blog
Dr. Nora Volkow is the Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) at the National Institutes of Health. Her research sheds light on one of the most important indicators that someone will or will not reach out for support for their substance use: stigma.[1] She states that:
"The words we use to describe mental illnesses and substance use disorders (addiction to alcohol and other legal and illegal drugs) can impact the likelihood that people will seek help and the quality of the help they receive. Research indicates that stigma—negative attitudes toward people based on distinguishing characteristics—contributes in multiple ways to poorer health outcomes; consequently, it has been identified as a critical focus for research and interventions."[2]
Addiction, along with mental health challenges, have long been some of the most stigmatized conditions. Countless research studies show that when there are stigmatizing attitudes, fewer people reach out for help. This is especially concerning considering the percentages of people who don’t receive the treatment they need (nearly 90% of the people who need support for their substance use challenges or addiction do not get it).[3]
The Words We Use Matter
How we talk about addiction and recovery matters. Not just because of the words we say, but because of the words we hear—and what our loved ones hear and in turn, can internalize. Research from 2019 shows that nearly 20% of people who needed help didn’t get it because they were concerned about what their neighbors or community would think.[4]
There are things that we can do as loved ones to learn how to talk about addiction and also why this matters—and how it can help end addiction stigma.
Understanding the science of addiction and recovery is a first step. You may be like me (not a neuroscientist) and that’s okay. There’s a way to understand what happens on a physical level when we experience substance use disorder or substance misuse challenges.
Flo Hilliard, MSH, founding member of Faces & Voices of Recovery and expert in the field of addiction science explains it this way:
"Many medical conditions, like Type 2 Diabetes and Cardiovascular disease, are linked to not only a genetic predisposition but also to patterns or habits that can lead to "turning on" the gene for that condition. Substance use disorders often follow the same pattern, yet there is often stigma and shame attached to the normal progression of the medical condition. Understanding the basic brain science of addiction and recovery is a fundamental step in eliminating stigma and treating those suffering from this disorder as respected human beings. Research shows that with the proper treatment and support people can and do recover from addiction to alcohol and other drugs to have successful professional and personal lives."
When we understand that addiction is a normal part of the human experience, it loses its ability to be framed as something requiring punitive measures. Something that causes shame. It lacks the power to divide into “us vs. them.” Addiction or substance use disorders are worthy of our understanding and compassion.
There are some excellent resources out there, including ones through the ATTC network, including their Addiction Science Made Easy Series, that share information about the science of addiction and recovery so we not only understand it but understand how to talk about it.
How We Talk About Addiction Recovery Matters
There are simple ways that you can talk about addiction and recovery that decrease stigma. The National Institute on Drug Abuse or NIDA shares these helpful ways to talk about addiction recovery:[5],[6]
Use person-first language
Promote community education about addiction
Share recovery stories
Education programs for folks who work with those of us in or seeking recovery like doctors, nurses, treatment providers, counselors, and church leaders
Here is another helpful resource from SAMHSA: Overcoming Stigma Ending Discrimination.
Check out this helpful chart from NIDA: Words Matter - Terms to Use and Avoid When Talking About Addiction.
Women and Addiction Stigma
Stigma is even more prevalent for women, especially mothers, and women of color, and this has been known for decades.[7]
It's part of why I founded and host the annual event with the SHE RECOVERS foundation that highlights and celebrates women’s recovery during Women’s History Month on International Women’s Day every year. This year, we are focusing on highlighting the next generation and why it’s important to not only share stories of recovery but also share what works in terms of recovery support services.
Gathering as a global community of supporters of recovery is not only an incredible experience, it has a purpose: to help reduce the addiction recovery stigma that women face.[8] Since women, especially from under-resourced and underserved communities, experience higher levels of addiction stigma and are thus, less likely to seek support, we all must work to address this issue that impacts millions.
When we share our stories of recovery in the light, it can illuminate hope for others and show that recovery is possible. When we use supportive and hope-filled language, we can be a part of eradicating the stigma and discrimination that has no place in our recovery-oriented world today.
Join us this March and celebrate.
For more information and to register for free visit: https://sherecovers.org/international-womens-day-2024/
Time and date don’t work for you? No problem! Register for a link to watch on demand any time or plan your own watch party.
Caroline Beidler, MSW is an author, recovery advocate, and founder of the storytelling platform Circle of Chairs. With almost 20 years in leadership within social work and ministry, she is currently a consultant with JBS International, along with the founder and host of the annual International Women’s Day Global Recovery Event presented by the SHE RECOVERS Foundation.
Connect with her @carolinebeidler_official and https://www.facebook.com/carolinebeidlermsw
[1] Volkow, N.D., Gordon, J.A. & Koob, G.F. Choosing appropriate language to reduce the stigma around mental illness and substance use disorders. Neuropsychopharmacol. 46, 2230–2232 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-021-01069-4
[2] National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Ending Discrimination Against People with Mental and Substance Use Disorders: the Evidence for Stigma Change. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press; 2016. https://doi.org/10.17226/23442.
[3] Hammarlund R, Crapanzano KA, Luce L, Mulligan L, Ward KM. Review of the effects of self-stigma and perceived social stigma on the treatment-seeking decisions of individuals with drug- and alcohol-use disorders. Subst Abus Rehabil. 2018;9:115–36. https://doi.org/10.2147/SAR.S183256. Published 2018 Nov 23.
[4] Han B. Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States: results from the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (HHS Publication No. PEP20-07-01-001, NSDUH Series H-55). Rockville, MD: Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration; 2020.
[5] Volkow, N.D., Gordon, J.A. & Koob, G.F. Choosing appropriate language to reduce the stigma around mental illness and substance use disorders. Neuropsychopharmacol. 46, 2230–2232 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-021-01069-4
[6] Livingston, J. D., Milne, T., Fang, M. L., & Amari, E. (2012). The effectiveness of interventions for reducing stigma related to substance use disorders: a systematic review. Addiction (Abingdon, England), 107(1), 39–50. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1360-0443.2011.03601.x
[7] Radcliffe P. Motherhood, Pregnancy, and the Negotiation of Identity: The Moral Career of Drug Treatment. Social Science & Medicine. 2011;72:984–991.
[8] Page, S., Fedorowicz, S., McCormack, F., Whitehead, S. (2024). Women, Addictions, Mental Health, Dishonesty, and Crime Stigma: Solutions to Reduce the Social Harms of Stigma. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 21(1):63. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21010063
Published: March 5, 2024
eNewsletter or Blog
by Raymond Crowel, PsyD, Clinical Director, The Danya Institute
In March 2020, COVID-19 made its presence felt literally around the world. Within weeks, our lives were upended, as businesses shuttered their doors, schools closed, and our social connections were severed. The same was true for substance use and recovery programs when outpatient addiction treatment, medication-assisted treatment, and residential treatment programs closed. In the early months, both face-to-face services and AA/NA support networks were nonexistent.
Successful substance use recovery requires access to treatment, connection to people, and a strong community that supports recovery. Limited access to treatment and services, paired with isolation, anxiety, and depression caused by the pandemic, proved to be devastating for many people in recovery. Relapse and overdose rates jumped in the first year of the pandemic, destroying the progress that was beginning to be made in combating the opioid abuse epidemic. In addition, many vulnerable people turned to drugs and alcohol to cope with the chronic stress, loneliness, loss of work, and grief. Lastly, the drug trade in fentanyl exploded. The result was a dramatic spike in overdoses and substance use-related emergency department visits.
<em>Image by Enrique from Pixabay</em>
While the COVID-19 pandemic has become less deadly, substance abuse has not. The ongoing trauma from the pandemic, untreated relapses in recovery, limited treatment capacity, and increasing potency and availability of illegal drugs contributed to more than 100,000 deaths in 2022 (NIDA).
The pandemic forced substance use treatment systems to think of creative ways to continue to support recovery. Peer Recovery Specialists, trained in outreach and connecting with persons ready to begin their recovery process, shifted to disposable cell phones and virtual support services and support groups. Flexible Federal and state government policies allowed medication-assisted treatment programs to provide more walk-up and take-home dosing. The entire substance abuse and mental health service system migrated to telehealth services to provide safe access to ongoing treatment.
Online networks and virtual referral processes made identifying and matching treatment providers with those seeking treatment easier. As residential programs reopened, providers implemented masking, testing, safe distancing, and sanitation processes to protect residents and staff from COVID-19. Many such practices put into place during the height of the pandemic have remained in place, permanently altering how services are delivered. Sadly, our rates of addiction, overdose, and death by overdose remain high. Although education, prevention, and treatment efforts are back to near pre-pandemic levels, still more needs to be done to save the lives of the many still struggling with addiction.
At a minimum, we need:
More treatment professionals, including Peer Recovery Specialists and credentialed foreign-trained professionals.
Integrated approaches to healthcare that consider both mental health and substance, along with social determinants of health.
Increased adoption of harm reduction efforts, including the widespread distribution of Naloxone, needle exchanges, and fentanyl test kits, as well as supervised consumption sites.
COVID-19’s legacy is one of suffering and rising to the challenge. We are hopeful that the enduring legacy will be a stronger system of care for behavioral health, built with the same determination brought to combatting COVID-19.
Published: January 2, 2024
eNewsletter or Blog
Trans Awareness Week, observed from November 13—19, is an opportunity to identify and become freshly aware of the unique challenges faced by the transgender community, particularly in relation to substance use disorder. We all have a crucial role to play in understanding and addressing these challenges.
Behavioral health professionals, social workers, counselors, and educators play a crucial role in creating a supportive environment for transgender individuals. By recognizing the additional layers of stress and vulnerability they face, professionals can better tailor interventions and support systems that address the underlying issues contributing to substance use.
The Central East ATTC is committed to equity and inclusion for ALL. In August, we provided a training titled “Creating Safety: Welcoming Approaches for LGBTQ Clients” for Health and Human Services Region 3 in which we explored how organizations can become safe spaces for LGBTQ clients and their families. To check out a recording and/or slides of that training, click HERE.
We have the power and responsibility to shape a more inclusive and empathetic workforce and society. By fostering understanding, compassion, and support, we can work together to create a world where transgender individuals are not compelled to escape their pain through substance use but are empowered to face their challenges with resilience and dignity. Let Trans Awareness Week 2023 be a stepping stone toward a more inclusive, empathetic, and supportive future for us all. To learn more about Trans Awareness Week, check out https://glaad.org/transweek.
Published: November 7, 2023
eNewsletter or Blog
November 2023 Dialogue: ATTC: Trans Awareness Week | MHTTC: School Well-Being Learning Community | PTTC: Fostering Inclusivity and Substance Use Prevention | ORN: Finding a Voice. Additional sections include behavioral health observances, virtual training and webinar events, and new resources.
The Dialogue is designed to inform behavioral and mental health professionals of news and upcoming events in the HHS Region 3/Central East region. This electronic newsletter is disseminated bi-monthly on the first Tuesday. You are encouraged to provide us with any feedback or submit articles and topics for discussion in future issues of the newsletter,
[email protected].
Sign up to receive the Dialogue and our weekly training bulletin in your mailbox.
Visit the Dialogue Archives.
Published: November 7, 2023
eNewsletter or Blog
September 2023 Dialogue – Addiction: Nurturing Purpose in Recovery: Unveiling Passions and Living Intentionally | MHTTC: Improving Suicide Prevention Strategies in Maryland | Prevention: National Suicide Prevention Month | ORN: Addressing Regional Needs. Additional sections include behavioral health observances, virtual training and webinar events, Region 3 news, and new publications/resources.
The Dialogue is designed to inform behavioral and mental health professionals of news and upcoming events in the HHS Region 3/Central East region. This electronic newsletter is disseminated bi-monthly on the first Tuesday. You are encouraged to provide us with any feedback or submit articles and topics for discussion in future issues of the newsletter,
[email protected].
Sign up to receive the Dialogue and our weekly training bulletin in your mailbox.
Visit the Dialogue Archives.
Published: September 5, 2023
Multimedia
DESCRIPTION
Xylazine (or “tranq”) is a non-opioid sedative and tranquilizer only approved for use in veterinary medicine. However, over the past several years, human consumption of xylazine has begun rapidly increasing. Although initially only identified in illicit drug supplies in limited areas, xylazine has been found in 48 states as of April 2023. Xylazine is frequently, though not exclusively, used in conjunction with opioids, particularly fentanyl—due to xylazine’s ability to prolong their effects. Xylazine use presents many potential dangers to people, including an increased risk of overdose and the development of necrotizing tissue damage.
This webinar will bring together experts from across disciplines to discuss the history of xylazine use, what is known about its current scope of use and consequences, the effects of xylazine on people, and wound care and other harm reduction strategies. It will also offer an opportunity for participants to ask questions in a roundtable panel discussion format.
OBJECTIVES
Describe Xylazine and its history of use and consequences.
Explain how harm reduction strategies need to be adapted for complications in Xylazine use.
Describe the current trends that detail the scope and the extent of the Xylazine issue.
PRESENTERS
Jason Bienert, RN, CWCN
Josh Esrick, MPP
DRUG ENFORCEMENT AGENCY (DEA) GUEST:
Gail Poirier, Section Chief, Strategic Intelligence Section (NIT)
Jaclyn Iera, Program Manager, Office of Forensic Sciences
SAMHSA
Jeanne Tuono, Assistant Regional Director (Region 3)
Published: July 25, 2023
eNewsletter or Blog
July 2023 Dialogue – Addiction: We Live it Every Day (DEI) | MHTTC: Improving LGBTQIA2S+ Youth Outcomes | Prevention: National BIPOC Mental Health Month: Culture, Community, & Connection | ORN: BIPOC Communities and Families | Regional Spotlight: 2023 Syndemic Solutions Summit. Additional sections include behavioral health observances, virtual training and webinar events, Region 3 news, and new publications/resources.
The Dialogue is designed to inform behavioral and mental health professionals of news and upcoming events in the HHS Region 3/Central East region. This electronic newsletter is disseminated bi-monthly on the first Tuesday. You are encouraged to provide us with any feedback or submit articles and topics for discussion in future issues of the newsletter,
[email protected].
Sign up to receive the Dialogue and our weekly training bulletin in your mailbox.
Visit the Dialogue Archives.
Published: July 5, 2023
Multimedia
DESCRIPTION
SAMHSA Region III, in partnership with the Central East Addiction Technology Transfer Center, is hosting a 90 minute virtual interactive training event to focus on workforce recruitment and retention. The featured speakers are the same content experts from Advocates for Human Potential who developed a Recruiting and Retention Toolkit for SAMHSA. The most relevant practical principles from the toolkit that have been updated will be presented. The speakers will showcase workforce planning and implementation strategies based on their extensive experience serving states, counties, providers and stakeholders.
GUEST SPEAKERS
ADVOCATES FOR HUMAN POTENTIAL WORKFORCE EXPERTS:
Richard Landis, MSW Co-Director, Training and Technical Assistance
Fran Basche, MA Senior Program Director
Susan Lange, MEd Senior Program Manager
SAMHSA SPEAKERS:
Jean Bennett, PhD SAMHSA Regional Director
Larke Huang, PhD Director, Office of Behavioral Health Equity
Published: June 2, 2023
eNewsletter or Blog
May 2023 Dialogue – Addiction: Deadly Impact of Fentanyl | MHTTC: Mental Health Awareness Month | Prevention: SAMHSA’s National Prevention Week: Promoting Health and Wellness | ORN: Make Possibilities a Reality | Regional Spotlight: ORN Xylazine Regional Summit. Additional sections include behavioral health observances, virtual training and webinar events, Region 3 news, and new publications/resources.
The Dialogue is designed to inform behavioral and mental health professionals of news and upcoming events in the HHS Region 3/Central East region. This electronic newsletter is disseminated bi-monthly on the first Tuesday. You are encouraged to provide us with any feedback or submit articles and topics for discussion in future issues of the newsletter,
[email protected].
Sign up to receive the Dialogue and our weekly training bulletin in your mailbox.
Visit the Dialogue Archives.
Published: May 2, 2023
Print Media
This infographic discusses xylazine, a non-opioid animal sedative and tranquilizer, also known as "tranq," that is being used as an additive to the illicit opioid supply, particularly fentanyl.
It covers key concerns including overdose risk, heart and blood pressure problems, necrotic tissue damage, treatment challenges, and harm reduction barriers.
It also contains suggested actions for prevention and treatment professionals.
*Originally published April 27, 2023, revised June 5, 2023
Published: April 27, 2023
Print Media
The use of electronic vaporizing devices (“vaping”) has skyrocketed in popularity since their widespread introduction across the United States. Through these devices, consumers inhale an aerosolized liquid compound, most commonly liquid nicotine or cannabis-derived chemicals (both CBD and THC). Risks stemming from vaping present an important public health challenge, particularly for youth, but also among adults. While significant research gaps remain, a growing number of evidence-based practices are available to behavioral health practitioners.
Published: March 21, 2023
eNewsletter or Blog
Due to the length of the articles written by our authors, the March 2023 Dialogue newsletter was split into two parts. Part 1 was published March 7 and Part 2 was published March 14.
Part 2 of the March newsletter contains articles: MHTTC: Celebrating Women in Medicine | Regional Spotlight: Sean's House. Additional sections include behavioral health observances and virtual training and webinar events.
The Dialogue is designed to inform behavioral and mental health professionals of news and upcoming events in the HHS Region 3/Central East region. This electronic newsletter is disseminated bi-monthly on the first Tuesday. You are encouraged to provide us with any feedback or submit articles and topics for discussion in future issues of the newsletter,
[email protected].
Sign up to receive the Dialogue and our weekly training bulletin in your mailbox.
Visit the Dialogue Archives.
Published: March 14, 2023