55. Substance Use Series: Overview of the Data

In this episode, we kick off our Substance Use Series with a comprehensive overview of the pressing substance use issues facing the United States today. From the growing concerns around drugs, alcohol, and marijuana to the broader societal impacts, we’ll explore the challenges and statistics that illustrate the scope of the problem. We delve into recent data from trusted sources like the National Institute on Drug Abuse and SAMHSA, shedding light on trends and implications for mental health. Additionally, we’ll discuss how substance use complicates mental health conditions and contributes to rising incarceration rates, particularly in rural communities. Join us for an eye-opening discussion that sets the stage for deeper dives into each substance in future episodes!

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Learn effective strategies for navigating the challenges of the behavioral health system.
• Discover the impact of climate change on mental health and ways to address it.
• Explore innovative approaches to addressing substance use in rural communities.
• Uncover powerful strategies for managing stress effectively and improving mental well-being.
• Understand the effects of both legal and illegal substance misuse on mental health.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction to Behavioral Health and Substance Use
00:02:59 - Overview of Substance Use Challenges
00:07:54 - Increase in Potency and Availability of Fentanyl
00:10:48 - Changing Perception of Marijuana and Risks
00:11:43 - Risks and Impact of Drug-Induced Psychosis
00:12:53 - The Dangers of Substance Misuse
00:14:05 - Impact of Substance Use on Healthcare
00:15:43 - Alarming Overdose Statistics
00:16:07 - Rural Communities and Mental Health
00:21:58 - Managing Stress and Self-Care
00:24:54 - Sleep Disturbance and Substance Use
00:25:05 - Substance Use Series Introduction
00:25:37 - Conclusion and Call to Action
00:26:00 - Contact Information and Future Episodes
00:26:33 - Closing Remarks 

Links:

• https://drugabusestatistics.org/
• https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/trends-statistics
• https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/11/13/hhs-samhsa-release-2022-national-survey-drug-use-health-data.html
• https://hhs.iowa.gov/media/9302/download?inline=
• https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2022-12/2022_DOA_eBook_File_Final.pdf

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https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wvAJEcpJF7o