How Behavioral Health Providers Are Addressing Substance Misuse Trends and Outcomes

CE Course Description

Substance misuse, a complex and multifaceted issue, continues to impact individuals, families, and communities worldwide. From alcohol and opioids to synthetic drugs and emerging substances, the spectrum of substances misused continues to evolve, presenting new challenges for prevention, treatment, and harm reduction efforts. The current landscape for addressing substance misuse and trends is complex and evolving, influenced by various factors, including societal attitudes, economic conditions, legislative changes, and advancements in healthcare. Several factors must be considered when addressing these issues, including prevalence and diversity of substance misuse, rising overdose rates, co-occurring mental health disorders, stigma to barriers and treatment, care integration, advancement in treatment modalities, and policy and legislative changes. This course will help behavioral health providers increase their knowledge, skills, and resources to help those who are struggling with substance.

Author: Kimberley Fortin, LCSW-R

CE Course Objectives

1. Identify current trends in substance use and the impact they have on individuals, families, and communities. 
2. Determine the challenges in addressing substance misuse. 
3. Differentiate between evidence-based treatments and emerging promising treatments for substance use disorder by selecting correct examples from given options.

CE Course Outline

Introduction (3 mins)

1. Introduction to Addressing Substance Misuse (3 mins)

Why is it important to address current trends? (10 mins)

1. Overview of Substance Misuse Disorders (2 mins)
2. Emerging Substances of Abuse (2 mins)
3. Demographic Patterns (3 mins)
4. Impact of Socioeconomic Factors (3 mins)

Challenges in Addressing Substance Misuse (10 mins)

1. Stigma and Barriers to Treatment (3 mins)
2. Co-occurring Mental Health Disorders (3 mins)
3. Accessibility and Equity Issues (2 mins)
4. Legal and Policy Challenges (2 mins)

Promising Practices and Interventions (10 mins)

1. Screening and Assessment Tools (2 mins)
2. Evidence-Based Treatment Approaches (2 mins)
3. Pharmacotherapy (3 mins)
4. Behavioral Therapies (3 mins)

Integrative Care Models (5 mins)

1. Collaborative Care (2 mins)
2. Trauma-Informed Approaches (3 mins)

Harm Reduction Strategies (5 mins)

1. Evidence-based Harm Reduction Strategies (5 mins)

Prevention and Long-Term Recovery (8 mins)

1. Stages of Relapse (4 mins)
2. Stages of Recovery (4 mins)

Ethical Considerations (6 mins)

1. Code of Ethics and Confidentiality (6 mins)

Conclusion (3 mins)

1. Conclusion (3 mins)

1. References (Not timed)
2. Appendices (Not timed)