Authors: Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board

Publication Year: 2022

Keywords: Substance Use, harm reduction

Abstract:

Opioid misuse is a health issue that impacts many people. It is not a moral failing or weakness. Nor is it a mark of bad character. It can happen to anyone.

People with substance use disorder, including opioid use disorder are often surprised by the cunning ways drugs or alcohol crept into their lives and became an issue. The reason for this is simple- addictive substances (like opioids and alcohol) actually change the way our brain works. In fact, one of the first brain changes that occurs is that opioids hijack the part of our brain that controls our cravings, tricking us into wanting opioids more frequently and in larger amounts.

Blaming ourselves or our loved ones for addiction is not useful. For many people, recovering from this condition requires help from a health care provider, counseling, and medications. Judgement and unkindness only stands in the way of those who are struggling. But kindness and community support opens doors and save lives.

We can look to stories of Trickster to think about how opioid misuse can similarly sneak into our communities and result in opioid use disorders for our people.

Source: Link to Original Article.

Type of Resource: Toolkit