Workshop: Advocacy in Action: How Addiction Psychiatrists Can Influence Public Policy-Advocacy in Action: How Addiction Psychiatrists Can Influence Public Policy

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The video featured a detailed discussion about advocacy efforts concerning addiction treatment and mental health issues, spearheaded by Dr. James H. Berry, a physician specializing in addiction and mental illness. Dr. Berry highlighted the opioid crisis' evolution in Appalachia and emphasized the significant yet treatable aspects of addiction. He stressed that while progress has been made in understanding addiction's biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects, there remains a critical need to expand access to effective treatments. While opioids have captured national attention, Dr. Berry pointed out other pressing issues, such as the rising use of stimulants and synthetic opioids, as well as alcohol and tobacco-related deaths. <br /><br />In the broader discussion about advocacy, there was a focus on legislative priorities to expand the addiction psychiatry workforce through loan repayment programs, fellowship funding, and continued support for training programs like the Provider's Clinical Support System (PCSS). Strategies for advocacy were shared, emphasizing communicating effectively with congressional members and their staff, understanding different political approaches, and honing skills to improve mental health care delivery.<br /><br />The session also included practical advice for participating in advocacy efforts, highlighting the importance of building long-term relationships with policymakers, tailoring messages according to political contexts, and leveraging existing networks like professional organizations for support. Attendees were urged to engage actively in advocacy, whether through direct political engagement or supporting state-level changes, stressing the nonpartisan nature of advocacy in addressing critical healthcare issues.

Keywords

addiction treatment

mental health

Dr. James H. Berry

opioid crisis

Appalachia

advocacy efforts

stimulants

synthetic opioids

addiction psychiatry

legislative priorities

PCSS

healthcare advocacy

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