When you think of the opioid crisis, older adults are likely not what comes to mind. However, older adults are highly impacted by the crisis. For some, it is a result of the opioid medications prescribed for chronic pain, while others have struggled with chronic substance use disorder for years, even before the crisis began.

 In this episode, we explore the often unexpected ways the opioid crisis is affecting older adults. We'll dive into why this group is so often overlooked in discussions about dependency and recovery, and examine the unique challenges they face in accessing education and care.

Guests:

• Maryann Mason, PhD, Sociologist and an associate professor of emergency medicine at Northwestern University
• Mary Nguyen, Pharmacist
• Jessica Liebster, Case Manager at West Neighbourhood House

Going to college is an exciting time filled with new experiences. For some students, it might also be their first exposure to opioids, and they may not know the dangers of accidental overdose.

However, college is also a time when many students get involved in creating change and promoting education to protect themselves, other students, and their communities. In this episode, hear how the conversation around overdose on college campuses is changing, and the students, administrators, and public health experts working to create safer campuses for everyone.



Guests:

• Riley Sullivan, Bella Grumet and Kathleen Ready of the Carolina Harm Reduction Union
• Cori Hammond, M.P.H, Director, Prevention Services, Partnership to End Addiction
• Alexis Drakatos, Assistant Director of Substance Misuse Prevention at the University of Oregon

Stress and other challenges often follow us into the workplace, and for those struggling with opioid dependency, the risks can be even more serious. Opioid overdose can happen on the job, yet many employees aren't aware of the warning signs or how to respond to help save a coworker’s life.

In this episode, we explore efforts to create safer, more supportive work environments, including initiatives to make naloxone accessible and build recovery-friendly workplaces. Hear how businesses can be part of the solution.

Guests:

• Lorraine Martin, CEO of the National Safety Council
• Desiree Voshefksy, Community Impact Manager at Community Medical Services for Eastern Arizona
• Cal Beyer, Senior Director for SAFE Workplaces at SAFE Project
• Dr. Joel Moody, Chief Prevention Officer and Assistant Deputy Minister for the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills development

Resources:

• The Alliance for Naloxone Safety in the Workplace
• Waging A Counterattack on Opioids: First-Dose Prevention Strategies for the Workplace & at Home