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The Opioid Crisis in America

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Gregory Curfman, MD and Catherine Finn, MSW, LCSW

5.0

Based on 2 ratings

, see reviews

Gregory Curfman, MD and Catherine Finn, MSW, LCSW

On average, 130 Americans die every day from an overdose of opioids, the class of drugs that includes heroin, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine, and fentanyl. Around 70% of all opioid overdose deaths involved a prescription opioid. Drug overdose is now the leading cause of accidental death in the United States — opioid addiction is driving this epidemic.

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On average, 130 Americans die every day from an overdose of opioids, the class of drugs that includes heroin, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine, and fentanyl. Around 70% of all opioid overdose deaths involved a prescription opioid. Drug overdose is now the leading cause of accidental death in the United States — opioid addiction is driving this epidemic.

In this course, you'll learn about the origins and spread of this epidemic. Our experts will cover the appropriate ways this class of drugs should be used, but we will also explore the impact of opioid misuse on the individual, family, and community. You’ll hear about effective medical treatments for addiction and how to reduce the stigma that exists around addiction. You’ll learn how to help prevent overdose deaths and explore the multiple pathways to recovery.

Join us to confront this epidemic with a broad perspective of the causes, effects, and solutions to the opioid crisis. After learning about harm-reduction approaches and evidence-based interventions to prevent addiction and support recovery, you will be equipped to confront the opioid epidemic.

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This course is available for Continuing Education credit. Enroll in the course to learn more about options for earning credit.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Medical and non-medical use of opioids, including heroin and fentanyl
How to manage pain with and without opioids
The risks and neurological pathways to opioid addiction
That addiction is a disease of the brain, not a lack of will

The multiple ways people can become addicted to opioids
The individual and social impacts of opioid addiction
The latest harm reduction approaches for law enforcement and public health officials
Empathic evidence-based behavioral approaches and medications that health care professionals can offer those struggling with opioid addiction

Medical and non-medical use of opioids, including heroin and fentanyl
How to manage pain with and without opioids
The risks and neurological pathways to opioid addiction
That addiction is a disease of the brain, not a lack of will
The multiple ways people can become addicted to opioids
The individual and social impacts of opioid addiction
The latest harm reduction approaches for law enforcement and public health officials
Empathic evidence-based behavioral approaches and medications that health care professionals can offer those struggling with opioid addiction

Syllabus

How has opioid misuse evolved and spread? Why is this a public health crisis in America?

Are opioids "bad" drugs, or are there appropriate ways to use them?

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Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Provides a multifaceted perspective on the opioid crisis, covering causes, effects, and solutions

Taught by experts in the field, including a medical doctor and a social worker, providing diverse perspectives

Offers Continuing Education credit, potentially enhancing professional development opportunities

Covers harm-reduction approaches, evidence-based interventions, and recovery pathways, providing practical knowledge for addressing the crisis

Suitable for individuals seeking to expand their understanding of the opioid epidemic and its impact on individuals, families, and communities

Emphasizes the importance of reducing stigma associated with addiction, fostering empathy and understanding

May require some foundational knowledge of medical terminology and concepts for optimal comprehension

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Reviews summary

Opioid crisis in america overview

According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive and empathetic overview of the opioid crisis in America. Students particularly praise the expert instructors from Harvard and other fields, highlighting the clarity of lectures and the sensitive handling of a difficult topic. Many found the information highly relevant and practical, especially for professionals or those impacted personally. While largely positive, a few learners noted that while it provides a strong foundation, it might lack the advanced depth needed for highly specialized professional practice.

Addresses sensitive topics with compassion.

"I really appreciated the focus on reducing stigma and approaching addiction with empathy."

"The course handled the personal stories and sensitive nature of the crisis with great care."

"It shifted my perspective on addiction as a disease, not a moral failing."

"The human element was handled very well throughout the course."

Information is applicable to real-world situations.

"As a healthcare professional, I found the information directly applicable to my practice."

"This course equipped me with knowledge I can use in my community."

"It provided practical strategies for harm reduction and supporting recovery."

"I now feel better prepared to discuss this topic and help others."

Course covers broad range of key topics.

"This course provides a very good overview of the opioid crisis from many different angles."

"It covers the history, science of addiction, treatment, and societal impact thoroughly."

"A comprehensive look at how we got here and potential ways forward."

"I gained a much better understanding of the complexity of this issue."

Highly qualified speakers provide clear insights.

"The speakers and subject matter experts provided invaluable insights."

"The professors and doctors were incredibly knowledgeable and presented the material clearly and with empathy."

"I felt the information was very credible coming from experts in the field."

"I learned from the best minds at Harvard and other institutions."

Better for overview than advanced knowledge.

"While a great introduction, it didn't go into the depth I needed for specific advanced clinical practices."

"For someone already familiar with the basics, some parts felt like review."

"I would have liked more detail on policy solutions or specific treatment protocols."

"It's an excellent starting point, but not a deep dive into all facets."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Opioid Crisis in America with these activities:

Review current events about the opioid crisis

Show steps

Help you understand the context of the opioid crisis, current challenges, and emerging solutions.

Browse courses on Opioid Crisis

Show steps

Set up a Google Alert for opioid crisis news
Subscribe to healthcare newsletters and follow industry thought leaders on social media
Read articles from reputable sources such as the CDC, WHO, and FDA

Read "Dreamland: The True Tale of America's Opiate Epidemic" by Sam Quinones

Show steps

Provide you with a comprehensive overview of the opioid crisis in the United States.

View The Least of Us: True Tales of America and Hope... on Amazon

Show steps

Purchase or borrow a copy of the book
Set aside dedicated time for reading
Take notes and highlight key passages

Learn how to administer naloxone

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Equip you with a life-saving skill that can help you respond to an opioid overdose.

Show steps

Search for certified overdose prevention training in your area
Watch online tutorials on how to administer naloxone

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Join an online support group for individuals affected by the opioid crisis

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Connect you with a network of peers who can provide support, share experiences, and offer encouragement.

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Search for online support groups on platforms such as Reddit and Meetup
Attend virtual meetings and engage with other members

Volunteer at an organization that provides support services to individuals with opioid addiction

Show steps

Allow you to gain practical experience, make a meaningful contribution, and deepen your understanding of the opioid crisis.

Browse courses on Volunteering

Show steps

Identify organizations in your area that provide support services to individuals with opioid addiction
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities
Commit to a regular volunteering schedule

Work through case studies of patients with opioid addiction

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Help you develop your clinical reasoning and treatment planning skills in the context of opioid addiction.

Browse courses on Case Studies

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Access case studies from reputable sources such as medical journals and textbooks
Analyze the case, identify key clinical issues, and develop a treatment plan
Discuss your findings with peers or a mentor

Develop a social media campaign to raise awareness about the opioid crisis

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Provide you with a platform to share your knowledge and engage with others on this important issue.

Browse courses on Social Media Marketing

Show steps

Define your target audience and develop a clear message
Create engaging and informative content, such as videos, infographics, and blog posts
Partner with organizations and influencers to amplify your reach
Monitor and evaluate the performance of your campaign

Career center

Learners who complete The Opioid Crisis in America will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Addiction Counselor

As an Addiction Counselor, you will help individuals who are struggling with opioid addiction. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to understand the medical and non-medical use of opioids, the risks and neurological pathways to opioid addiction, and the latest harm reduction approaches. You will also learn how to provide empathic evidence-based behavioral approaches and medications to those struggling with opioid addiction.

See salaries and explore the career path for Addiction Counselor

Public Health Educator

As a Public Health Educator, you will work to prevent and control opioid misuse and addiction. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to understand the origins and spread of the opioid epidemic, the impact of opioid misuse on the individual, family, and community, and the latest harm reduction approaches for law enforcement and public health officials.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Educator

Healthcare Administrator

As a Healthcare Administrator, you will be responsible for managing the operations of a healthcare facility or organization. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to understand the medical and non-medical use of opioids, the risks and neurological pathways to opioid addiction, and the latest harm reduction approaches.

See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Administrator

Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts develop and analyze policies to address social and economic issues. As a Policy Analyst specializing in the opioid epidemic, you will use your knowledge of the origins, spread, and impact of opioid misuse to develop and analyze policies to address this issue.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Substance Abuse Counselor

Substance Abuse Counselors help individuals who are struggling with substance abuse, including opioid addiction. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to understand the medical and non-medical use of opioids, the risks and neurological pathways to opioid addiction, and the latest harm reduction approaches.

See salaries and explore the career path for Substance Abuse Counselor

Social Worker

Social Workers provide support and counseling to individuals and families who are struggling with a variety of issues, including opioid addiction. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to understand the medical and non-medical use of opioids, the risks and neurological pathways to opioid addiction, and the latest harm reduction approaches.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker

Healthcare Policy Analyst

Healthcare Policy Analysts analyze healthcare policies and make recommendations for changes. As a Healthcare Policy Analyst specializing in the opioid epidemic, you will use your knowledge of the origins, spread, and impact of opioid misuse to analyze healthcare policies and make recommendations for changes to address this issue.

See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Policy Analyst

Health Educator

Health Educators provide education and resources to individuals and communities to promote health and prevent disease. As a Health Educator specializing in the opioid epidemic, you will use your knowledge of the origins, spread, and impact of opioid misuse to develop and deliver educational programs to address this issue.

See salaries and explore the career path for Health Educator

Registered Nurse

Registered Nurses provide care to patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. As a Registered Nurse working with patients who are struggling with opioid addiction, you will use your knowledge of the medical and non-medical use of opioids, the risks and neurological pathways to opioid addiction, and the latest harm reduction approaches to provide compassionate and effective care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Registered Nurse

Pharmacist

Pharmacists dispense medications and provide counseling to patients on how to use them safely and effectively. As a Pharmacist specializing in the opioid epidemic, you will use your knowledge of the medical and non-medical use of opioids, the risks and neurological pathways to opioid addiction, and the latest harm reduction approaches to provide counseling to patients on how to use opioids safely and effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pharmacist

Physician

Physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. As a Physician specializing in the opioid epidemic, you will use your knowledge of the medical and non-medical use of opioids, the risks and neurological pathways to opioid addiction, and the latest harm reduction approaches to diagnose and treat patients who are struggling with opioid addiction.

See salaries and explore the career path for Physician

Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists investigate the causes and spread of diseases and other health conditions. As an Epidemiologist specializing in the opioid epidemic, you will use your knowledge of the origins, spread, and impact of opioid misuse to investigate the causes and spread of this epidemic.

See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist

Statistician

Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data. As a Statistician specializing in the opioid epidemic, you will use your knowledge of the origins, spread, and impact of opioid misuse to collect, analyze, and interpret data on this epidemic.

See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Research Scientist

Research Scientists conduct research to advance knowledge in a particular field. As a Research Scientist specializing in the opioid epidemic, you will use your knowledge of the origins, spread, and impact of opioid misuse to conduct research to advance knowledge in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Research Scientist

Health Policy Analyst

Health Policy Analysts analyze health policies and make recommendations for changes. As a Health Policy Analyst specializing in the opioid epidemic, you will use your knowledge of the origins, spread, and impact of opioid misuse to analyze health policies and make recommendations for changes to address this issue.

See salaries and explore the career path for Health Policy Analyst

Reading list

We've selected nine books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The Opioid Crisis in America.

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Chronic Pain and Addiction

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This in-depth guide to pain management and addiction covers the latest research on opioids and their role in pain treatment.

Chronic Pain and Addiction (Advances in...

Nicotine and Marijuana

Save

This comprehensive textbook provides a detailed overview of the science of addiction, including its neurobiological, psychological, and social aspects.

Nicotine and Marijuana (Volume 5) (Neurobiology of...

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Measuring Success in Substance Use Grant Programs

Save

This collection of expert reports provides evidence-based recommendations for addressing the opioid epidemic at the national, state, and local levels.

Measuring Success in Substance Use Grant Programs:...

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WHO operational handbook on tuberculosis. Module 5

Save

This resource provides evidence-based guidance on the safe and effective use of opioids in clinical practice.

WHO operational handbook on tuberculosis. Module 5

WHO operational handbook on tuberculosis. Module 5

Cover image

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Raising Lazarus

Save

This gripping narrative tells the story of the opioid crisis through the experiences of individuals and communities affected by it.

Raising Lazarus: Hope, Justice, and the Future of...

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Dopamine Nation

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This insider's account by a Stanford psychiatrist provides insights into the role of doctors in the opioid epidemic and the need for systemic change.

Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of...

The Official Dopamine Nation Workbook: Practical...

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The Butterfly Effect: Flutters of Wisdom and...

Save

This historical account of the opioid epidemic traces its roots to the overprescription of pain medication in the 1990s.

The Butterfly Effect: Flutters of Wisdom and...

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Lost Connections

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This thought-provoking book challenges conventional wisdom about drug policy and offers a nuanced perspective on the causes and consequences of the drug war.

Stolen Focus: Why You Can't Pay Attention--and How...

Lost Connections

Johann Hari 2 Books Collection Set (Lost...

(Deutsch) Der Welt nicht mehr verbunden: Die wahren Ursachen...

Johann Hari Collection 3 Books Set (Stolen Focus,...

Stolen Focus, Chasing the Scream, Lost Connections...

Lost Connections, It's Not Always Depression, How...

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Neurocircuitry of Addiction

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This concise overview of the neurobiology of addiction provides a foundational understanding of the brain mechanisms involved in substance use disorders.

Neurocircuitry of Addiction

Neurocircuitry of Addiction

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Course image

Rating

5.0

Effort

1 to 2 hours per week for 10 weeks

Level

Introductory

Via

edX

Institution

Harvard University

Instructors

Gregory Curfman, MD

Catherine Finn, MSW, LCSW

Language

English

Transcript

English

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Provides a multifaceted perspective on the opioid crisis, covering causes, effects, and solutions

Taught by experts in the field, including a medical doctor and a social worker, providing diverse perspectives

Offers Continuing Education credit, potentially enhancing professional development opportunities

Covers harm-reduction approaches, evidence-based interventions, and recovery pathways, providing practical knowledge for addressing the crisis

Suitable for individuals seeking to expand their understanding of the opioid epidemic and its impact on individuals, families, and communities

Emphasizes the importance of reducing stigma associated with addiction, fostering empathy and understanding

May require some foundational knowledge of medical terminology and concepts for optimal comprehension

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