Life After Overdose: Patients Speak Out on Treatment and Needs
Interestingly, most patients felt the treatment was ineffective or with a limited sustainable impact upon their drug use.
Ever wondered what goes through someone's mind after surviving an opioid overdose? In this eye-opening episode of 'Addiction in Emergency Medicine and Acute Care', Dr. Casey Grover dives into a 2021 study from Academic Emergency Medicine. The study, titled 'A qualitative study of Emergency Department patients who survived an opioid overdose: Perspectives on treatment and unmet needs', captures the raw, unfiltered thoughts of patients post-overdose. You might be surprised by what they have to say.
Many patients felt the treatments they received were either ineffective or only provided short-term relief. They voiced a strong need for resources like harm reduction tools, naloxone, stable housing, medical care, mental health support, and employment opportunities. Housing, in particular, stood out as a critical factor, with some patients pointing to a lack of permanent housing as a key driver of continued drug use. Communication also plays a pivotal role in recovery.
Patients reported feeling stigmatized when discussing their issues in public spaces like waiting rooms or hallways. This episode highlights the need for healthcare providers to hone their communication skills, employing techniques like motivational interviewing to foster a more supportive environment. Whether you're in the medical field or simply interested in understanding the complexities of addiction recovery, this episode offers valuable insights into the lived experiences of those battling substance use disorders.