Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Research

This is to memorize the time I did the OD2A in Washington State program as one of the OD2A Navigators in CRS(Chinese Radio Seattle). I worked closely with another navigator, Chenta, doing all sorts of voluntary activities and working towards finishing the OD2A data sheet(the workbook for official keeping records of our daily activities(like meetings, seminars, and community helping), the individuals we helped/contacted, expenses, and the medical clinics we connected with. We made connections with organizations such as Union Gospel Mission, King County Health Department, and multiple shelters from LIHI(Low Income Housing Institute in Seattle), to try to initiate more seminars for educational purposes, as well as affiliating with Narcan and drug testers.

Video Editing/Voiceover: Amber Pan

1. Introduction to Substance Use Disorder

  • Definition: A Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is characterized by the problematic use of substances that leads to clinically significant impairment or distress. This includes alcohol, drugs, and behavioral addictions.

  • Key Concepts:

    • Addiction: Psychological and physical dependence on substances.

    • Tolerance: The need for increased amounts of a substance to achieve the desired effect.

    • Withdrawal: Symptoms that occur when a substance is reduced or stopped after prolonged use.

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2. Types of Substances

  • Common substances: Alcohol, cocaine, opiates, nicotine, marijuana, and prescription drugs (e.g., benzodiazepines).

  • Behavioral Addictions: Gambling, video gaming, social media, and shopping.

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3. Risk Factors and Causes of SUD

  • Biological: Genetic predisposition, brain chemistry (dopamine pathways).

  • Psychological: Trauma, depression, anxiety, and other co-occurring mental health issues.

  • Environmental: Family history of substance use, peer pressure, availability of substances, and socioeconomic factors.

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4. Stages of Change Model (Transtheoretical Model)

  • Precontemplation: Not yet considering change.

  • Contemplation: Aware of the problem but not ready to take action.

  • Preparation: Planning to take action soon.

  • Action: Actively making changes.

  • Maintenance: Sustaining changes made.

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5. Therapeutic Approaches

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns related to substance use.

  • Motivational Interviewing (MI): A collaborative, client-centered approach that enhances motivation to change.

  • 12-Step Programs: Based on Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), focusing on abstinence, personal responsibility, and spirituality.

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6. Relapse Prevention

  • Warning Signs of Relapse: Emotional and behavioral signs like defensiveness, craving, and denial.

  • Relapse Prevention Techniques: Coping strategies, social support, addressing high-risk situations, and reinforcing positive behavior.

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7. Family Involvement

  • Family Therapy: Involves the family in treatment to address dysfunctional family dynamics that may contribute to substance use.

  • Enabling Behavior: Actions by family members that prevent the person from facing the consequences of their addiction.

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8. Co-Occurring Disorders

  • Mental Health & Substance Use: Individuals with co-occurring disorders need integrated treatment for both the substance use and mental health aspects.

  • Common Co-occurring Disorders: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and conduct disorders.

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9. Treatment Settings and Models

  • Outpatient vs. Inpatient Treatment: Outpatient involves therapy and counseling while living at home; inpatient provides 24/7 care in a structured environment.

  • Community-Based Programs: Involves community support, such as 12-Step groups (AA, NA).

  • Pharmacotherapy: Medications that can aid in withdrawal management, maintenance, or preventing relapse (e.g., methadone for opioid use disorder).

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10. Substance Abuse in the Criminal Justice System

  • Challenges in the System: Criminal justice clients with SUDs often face barriers in accessing treatment.

  • Treatment Approaches: Legal mandates can motivate engagement but are not always effective in fostering long-term change unless combined with therapeutic approaches.

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11. Neuroplasticity and Addiction

  • Neuroplasticity: The brain's ability to rewire and form new connections, which is critical in addiction recovery as individuals learn new coping mechanisms.

  • The Role of Dopamine: In addiction, substances hijack the brain’s reward system, leading to reinforced patterns of behavior.

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12. Harm Reduction

  • Goal: Minimize the negative consequences of substance use rather than necessarily requiring complete abstinence.

  • Examples: Needle exchange programs, safe drinking guidelines, and prescription monitoring programs.

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Additional Resources for Further Learning: