Resources
12 Results (showing 1 - 10)
Results sorted by updated date (newest first)
Results sorted by updated date (newest first)
Posted 10/23/2023 (updated 5/24/2024)
Using data from 77 harm reduction programs in 25 US states, researchers found that 12-15% of powder methamphetamine and powder cocaine also contained fentanyl although the prevalence varied geographically. Prevalence of fentanyl in crystal methamphetamine and crack cocaine was lower. Heroin and xylazine were also found in unregulated stimulants. Xylazine reduced the ability to detect fentanyl.
Posted 4/7/2021 (updated 4/5/2024)
To advance the broader aims of a healthy and just society, the regular use of language that is nonprejudicial is critical. This document outlines a person first language approach and offers guiding principles and recommendations regarding accurate and nonpejorative terminology.
Posted 1/27/2021 (updated 4/4/2024)
The current study examined the accuracy of sensory discernment strategies by measuring study participants’ descriptions of the last opioid injected and checked with a fentanyl test strip (FTS) by that test's positive/negative result. The primary objective was to determine associations between FTS results and descriptions of the illi it opioid's physical appearance and physiological effects.
Posted 12/23/2020 (updated 4/4/2024)
This article presents an important look into stigma of families impacted by NAS and the ways in which healthcare providers must work to combat stigma’s harmful effects, and explores directions for future research of strategies for reducing stigma amongst this population to improve engagement in healthcare and positive heath-seeking behaviors. The authors reported that mothers of infants with NAS experience intensified stigma surrounding SUDs and the challenge of overcoming exclusion, shame, and judgement of their ability to parent. In examining nurses’ perceptions of perinatal women with SUD, the authors found that many struggled with negative attitudes and prejudices towards mothers of infants with NAS that interfered with their ability to provide nonjudgmental care. The authors urge nurses to implement substantial strategies for addressing stigma through tools such as the ACTS script.
Posted 9/30/2020 (updated 3/29/2024)
This page offers background information and tips for providers to keep in mind while using person-first language, as well as terms to avoid to reduce stigma and negative bias when discussing addiction.
Posted 11/27/2019 (updated 3/28/2024)
Negative language and stigma regarding substance use disorder and addiction have shown to be a key barrier to seeking and receiving treatment for people who use drugs.
Posted 7/21/2023 (updated 3/28/2024)
A recent study, Stigmatizing Imagery For Substance Use Disorders: A Qualitative Exploration, explored the use of stigmatizing and non-stigmatizing imagery in the field of substance use disorders and law enforcement. While the discussion of stigmatizing language has been around, the discussion of stigmatizing imagery is important to have as it may have effects on treatment, recovery, and reintegration. The qualitative study interviewed people with lived substance use disorder experience who identified stigmatizing imagery and the possible implications it could have.
Posted 7/21/2023 (updated 3/28/2024)
The Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) released a plan in response to fentanyl being adulterated or associated with xylazine, which was declared as an emerging drug threat in April 2023. Due to the effect of combining these substances, people may be less responsive to naloxone in an overdose situation. The response plan includes evidence-based prevention, treatment, and supply reduction action steps, goals, and performance measures.
Posted 7/14/2023 (updated 3/28/2024)
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has compiled a Harm Reduction Framework document that will inform the agency's activities, policies, programs, and practices. The framework document includes SAMHSA's six pillars of harm reduction as well as supporting principles and core practice areas.
Posted 4/28/2023 (updated 3/27/2024)
With the proliferation of fentanyl and other adulterants in the national illicit drug supply, people who use drugs (PWUD) are at greater risk of overdose. Among more than 107,000 drug overdose deaths that occurred between July 2021–June 2022, 64% involved synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Lowering the high rates of overdose among PWUD is possible, as evidence-based practices exist to prevent and respond to overdose, including fentanyl test strips and advanced drug checking equipment. To inform health departments’ harm reduction programming, the National Council for Mental Wellbeing – with support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – developed Enhancing Harm Reduction Services in Health Departments: Fentanyl Test Strips and Other Drug Checking Equipment, an educational brief grounded by real-world experience.