Much of the recent discourse in the addiction treatment and recovery community has touched upon the record-breaking rise in overdose deaths in the United States, as well as the sharp uptick in alcohol use that came about at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. But very rarely is alcohol discussed as being a part of […]
News
No, the Government Is Not Giving Out Crack Pipes & Other Harm Reduction Myths Busted
In President Biden’s March 1st State of the Union address, the opioid epidemic was discussed as one of four bi-partisan issues which the nation could unify. President Biden went on to explain strategies that can be done to combat the crisis of opioid use and overdose. “There is so much we can do. Increase funding […]
The Importance of Speaking the Same Language in Addiction Treatment
There is a recognizable need for improved treatment for substance use disorder in the United States. Drug overdose deaths are at an all-time high and standardization of the delivery and coverage for addiction treatment can be hard to find. Unfortunately, as it stands, addiction treatment and reimbursement practices can vary greatly from state to state, […]
Holiday Tips and Resources for People in Recovery
Thanks to COVID-19 vaccines, this year’s holiday season is likely to feel more “normal” than last year, with family gatherings, holiday parties, and many other traditional festivities making a cautious return. For people in recovery from a substance use disorder, the holidays can be an especially difficult time for a number of reasons. Parties, gatherings, […]
How Likely is Your LGBTQ Teen to Use Drugs and Alcohol? Your Support Could Be the Deciding Factor
Research shows that LGBTQ youth are two to four times more likely to use substances than their heterosexual and cisgender peers. Find out why and learn what kinds of support help most.
Opportunity Out of Crisis: A Natural Experiment
The COVID-19 pandemic has presented challenges and opportunities for substance disorder treatment. IRETA and Vital Strategies are studying effects of OTP rule changes.
Skyrocketing Methamphetamine Overdose Deaths Show Our “Crisis Response” Must Expand Beyond Just Opioids
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) released a study that shows a combination of two medications, injectable naltrexone and oral bupropion, is safe and effective in treating methamphetamine use disorder.
The War on Drugs Has Damaged Black Communities and Deepened Racial Bias
At IRETA, we often begin with the premise that “the system produces the results it is designed to produce.” Therefore, if clients regularly drop out of your treatment program – it’s time to take a hard look at your system and how it’s “working.” Because it is working, the question is whether you like the results.
You Have Options For Dealing With Alcohol Withdrawal
It’s common to imagine ‘detox’ as a place you stay for a while, but most people in alcohol withdrawal can be managed as outpatients. In short, this is a dangerous time to be physically dependent on alcohol.
Fear of Drug Users is How We Justify Harming Them
Fear of Drug Users is How We Justify Harming Them. Why is it that I felt afraid? It was more emotional than logical. My reaction was partly based on the way they use drugs. Although people sipping beer or wine typically feel safe and “normal,” drug users’ use of a hypodermic needle felt different, almost like a weapon.