Location
Hopwood Auditorium
Access Type
Campus Access Only
Presentation Type
Oral presentation
Entry Number
68
Start Date
4-16-2026 9:15 AM
End Date
4-16-2026 9:30 AM
School
School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Department
Counseling and Human Services
Keywords
opioids, treatment, stigma, isolation, barriers, engagement
Abstract
The opioid crisis remains a significant public health issue that has profoundly impacted individuals, families, and communities. Although treatment options are available for those seeking recovery, research suggests that current interventions are often limited in effectiveness and are not utilized by those who could benefit from them. Societal stigma and systemic barriers have contributed to the current environment in which those affected by opioid addiction may feel isolated and unsafe when seeking treatment or discussing recovery. This climate has further contributed to a lack of public understanding regarding the scope and severity of opioid use disorder. Increasing public education and fostering supportive community environments are essential steps toward improving treatment engagement and addressing the opioid crisis more effectively.
Primary Faculty Mentor(s)
Dr. Sara W. Bailey
Primary Faculty Mentor(s) Department
Counselor Education Program
Rights Statement
The right to download or print any portion of this material is granted by the copyright owner only for personal or educational use. The author/creator retains all proprietary rights, including copyright ownership. Any editing, other reproduction or other use of this material by any means requires the express written permission of the copyright owner. Except as provided above, or for any other use that is allowed by fair use (Title 17, §107 U.S.C.), you may not reproduce, republish, post, transmit or distribute any material from this web site in any physical or digital form without the permission of the copyright owner of the material.
Opioids: The Silent Epidemic
Hopwood Auditorium
The opioid crisis remains a significant public health issue that has profoundly impacted individuals, families, and communities. Although treatment options are available for those seeking recovery, research suggests that current interventions are often limited in effectiveness and are not utilized by those who could benefit from them. Societal stigma and systemic barriers have contributed to the current environment in which those affected by opioid addiction may feel isolated and unsafe when seeking treatment or discussing recovery. This climate has further contributed to a lack of public understanding regarding the scope and severity of opioid use disorder. Increasing public education and fostering supportive community environments are essential steps toward improving treatment engagement and addressing the opioid crisis more effectively.