Battling Substance Use Disorder in our Communities Conference
Berea College hosted this educational event aimed at educating nurses, nurse educators, nursing and allied health students, and healthcare providers. BH WELL team members, Sarret Seng and Dr. Zim Okoli gave a presentation at the event. The presentation provided an overview of tobacco and cannabis use disorders. In addition to defining clinical features and diagnostic criteria, the presenters explored the prevalence and patterns of use within Kentucky, highlighting the disproportionate burden among individuals living with mental and behavioral health challenges. Furthermore, the session emphasized the need for integrated prevention and treatment approaches within community and clinical settings based on the latest research and public health data. The presentation also offered information on current evidence-based interventions, including behavioral therapies, pharmacologic treatments, and harm reduction strategies, aimed at improving recovery outcomes and reducing health disparities related to substance use in Kentucky communities.