The United States is experiencing a significant increase in substance use problems, coupled with co-occurring mental health disorders, amplified by rising loneliness and hopelessness. Decreased cost, increased availability, and powerful social media marketing have created an environment ripe for drug-seeking behavior. Understanding current trends in conventional substance use (e.g., alcohol, marijuana, stimulants, and opioids) is crucial, but so is awareness of emerging substance often found in “smoke and vape shops” or online (e.g., kratom, K2/spice, delta 8, CBD, bath salts, psilocybin, salvia, ketamine, tianeptine, and DMAA). Psychologists, mental health professionals, medical professionals, and ministry leaders will cover current trends, misconceptions, pharmacology, treatment, and public policy. Participants will assess the pharmacological, physiological, and behavioral effects of these substances and will develop an appreciation for how these drugs can cause or mimic mental health conditions. Additionally, participants will understand the current misconceptions regarding these drugs and strategies for informing patients, clients, and policymakers about these new trends.
102 | Emerging Trends in Substance Use and Addiction: From Pharmacology to Policy
PRESENTERS
Brian Kelley, Ph.D.
CE CREDITS
1.25
Approved For CE
APA, ASWB, NBCC, NAADAC, IBCC, AMA PRA Category 1 Credits, AOA Category 2A Credits, Georgia Nurses Association, AAFP, Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling
Approved For CME/CEU
LEVEL
Advanced
Summary
Learning Objectives
1 Assess the pharmacology, physiology, and behavioral effects of both conventional and emerging substances, enhancing knowledge of how these substances impact clients.
2 Develop an awareness for how these drugs can cause or mimic mental health conditions, improving participants ability to identify and address substance-related mental health issues.
3 Identify the current misconceptions regarding these drugs and strategies for discussing the use with patients, clients, and policymakers, fostering more effective communication and advocacy.