Synthetic cannabinoids like SPICE and K2 continue to appear in emergency departments and behavioral health conversations across Nevada. This special collaborative post from CASAT OnDemand and the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence (NOCE) provides an overview of what these substances are, how they differ from opioids and cannabis, and why they present ongoing risks. It’s also intended to help parents, caregivers, and community members better understand the dangers of these substances and how to respond in an emergency.
Community Health Workers (CHWs) are reshaping behavioral health care in Nevada by building trust, expanding access, and strengthening support for individuals affected by opioid use disorder. Las Vegas-based advocate Alisa Howard highlights how CHWs use lived experience and community connection to enhance care and improve outcomes across the state.
Pregnant and postpartum people affected by substance use disorders face significant barriers to care—and doulas are often on the front lines of support. This blog post explores the growing need for substance use-informed training for birth workers and introduces a new four-part virtual series designed to equip doulas and other professionals with trauma-informed, practical tools.
Washoe County is inviting residents to help shape the future of opioid prevention, treatment, and recovery by completing the Washoe County Opioid Use Needs Assessment Community Survey. This short, anonymous survey will inform the priorities of the Washoe Opioid Abatement and Recovery Fund (WOARF) and guide how opioid settlement funds are used to strengthen services in our region.
In recognition of Black Maternal Health Week, this blog by Bianca D. McCall, LMFT, explores the often-overlooked intersections between reproductive health, chronic pain, and opioid use among Black women. From delayed diagnoses of endometriosis to disparities in pain management and substance use risk, the post highlights the systemic gaps that drive health inequities—and calls for culturally responsive, trauma-informed care as a path forward.
Nevada continues to face the devastating effects of the opioid crisis, with rising overdose rates, increasing co-occurring mental health challenges, and significant health disparities across communities. The Nevada Opioid Needs Assessment and Statewide Plan identifies Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)—such as trauma, neglect, or family instability—as major risk factors for substance use, opioid use disorder (OUD), and overdose.