This episode explores the integration of stimulants into the treatment system and addresses the impact of stigma on healthcare innovations. Dr. Levin and Dr. Shoptaw discuss the foundational role of medication in care and emphasize the need for integrated strategies within the system. They highlight medications with potential for treating addiction and psychiatric conditions simultaneously.  The overarching objective is to develop interventions that cater to the patient’s needs. Throughout the episode, listeners gain insight into the significance of implementing and expanding the use of these medications across the treatment system.

This episode explores the benefits of having on hand Naloxone Kits and Fentanyl Testing Strips for stimulant use disorder. Dr. Shoptaw and Amy Shanahan highlight how these resources can contribute to establishing consistent health responses by advocating for harm reduction approaches in both Stimulant Use Disorders and Opioid Use Disorders. They delve into the significance of creating a unified response that prioritizes health and promotes harm reduction practices. Furthermore, the episode addresses the disparity in care between opioid use and stimulant use, shedding light on the concerning fact that stimulant use often garners less attention and concern compared to opioids.

This episode explores the significant impact of stigma in perpetuating health inequities among individuals who use stimulants. Laurie emphasizes this theme by sharing personal anecdotes, including experiences of incarceration due to acquisitive crimes, encounters with stigmatizing treatment and her experience of stigmatizing behavior influencing healthcare decisions. Through this narrative, listeners gain insight into how stigma acts as a pervasive barrier that hinders individuals from seeking recovery and accessing necessary treatment and care.

This episode explores policy barriers that contribute to stigma and discrimination particularly in relation to individuals with Stimulant Use Disorder (StUD). Michelle Dirst and Dr. Kelly delve into how these policies can affect patient access to care and treatment, both at the institutional and individual levels. They also explore strategies to support policy changes that promote more equitable and compassionate care for individuals who inject substances and emphasize the importance of recognizing the impact of trauma and equity issues, including the disproportionate number of individuals involved in the criminal justice system due to substance use. Listeners will gain insight into policy changes at the federal and state levels that aim to reduce stigma for patients with StUD, as well as the historical context of policy changes and relevant legislation.

This episode explores the potential impact of effective stimulant treatment in mitigating criminal-legal interactions for individuals with Stimulant Use Disorder (StUD). Tara and Justin highlight the importance of collaboration between addiction treatment providers and criminal-legal partners to reduce recidivism and facilitate long-term recovery. This episode sheds light on the complex intersectionality surrounding individuals who use stimulants, particularly when examining national data. Listeners will gain insight into how BIPOC, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people living with HIV are disproportionately affected by stimulant use disorder and experience more frequent involvement with the criminal-legal system. By exploring these dynamics, this episode aims to raise awareness about the need for comprehensive support and tailored interventions for these populations.

This episode examines the profound implications of stigma on stimulant use within Black Communities throughout history. Dr. Shorter and Dr. Mathis delve into various aspects including the historical context of the war on drugs and the present-day racialization of certain types of stimulant use. This episode emphasizes the significance of acknowledging this history and its impact when individuals from these communities seek treatment and support. Listeners will learn the importance of creating a culturally responsive environment for individuals seeking care.

This episode explores the misconceptions around stimulants, methamphetamines, and stigma associated with pregnant and parenting individuals. Amy Shanahan and Dr. Smid delve into the driving factors behind maternal mortality and systemic stigma surrounding substance use and parenting challenges. By exploring these topics, listeners gain insight into the institutionalized stigma and are given steps to reduce harm and stigma, not only for this specific community, but also within broader systems. The episode aims to provide guidance on breaking down ingrained stigmas amid pregnant and parenting individuals and promoting a more compassionate and supportive environment for this community.