Topic: Special Populations

Care Considerations for Addressing Substance Use and the Opioid Epidemic Among Older Adult Populations – Opioid Response Network (ORN) Regional Summit

The presentation will look at the prevalence of substance use among older people with an added focus on opioid epidemiology. It will also provide an overview for screening and identifying substance use within this population group. Additionally, a broad biopsychosocial framework and sociohistorical lens will be utilized to analyze risk factors and vulnerabilities for substance use among older people. The presentation will conclude with care considerations that integrate psychosocial aspects of well-being and reinforce the importance of psychotherapeutic interventions.

Medications for Treating Youth with Substance Use Disorder

This resource from the Recovery Research Institute at Massachusetts General Hospital, created in partnership with the Opioid Response Network, breaks down medications used to treat youth with substance use disorder. It includes a side-by-side comparison of six medications, covering the substance each treats, age limits, and how they work, along with clear answers to common questions about what’s FDA-approved, what’s used off-label, and the risks and benefits for young people. An accessible, science-based reference for families and providers navigating treatment options.

The Role of Rural Community Partners in Addressing the Opioid Crisis

This video explores how grassroots organizations, local leaders, and service providers in rural areas can work together to combat the devastating impact of opioid addiction. Participants will gain insights into the unique challenges faced by rural communities, discover innovative strategies and success stories from the field, and learn how to build effective partnerships that support prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Youth & Substance Use: Prevention Strategies for Families and Schools

Preventing substance use among youth starts at home and in the classroom. This video will explore practical, evidence-based strategies that families and schools can use to reduce risk and build resilience in children and adolescents. Participants will learn how to recognize early warning signs, foster open communication, implement school-based prevention programs, and create strong partnerships between educators and caregivers.

Empowering Rural Communities: Overcoming Barriers to Treatment

Rural communities face unique challenges in addressing substance use disorders, from limited access to care and transportation barriers to social labeling and workforce shortages. This webinar will explore innovative, community-driven strategies that are helping rural areas expand treatment access and build recovery-ready environments. Attendees will gain insights into successful models such as mobile clinics, telehealth, peer support networks, and faith-based partnerships, along with practical tools and resources to take action locally.