Opioids: An Introduction to the Epidemic

Every day, more than 130 people in the United States overdose on opioids. Many of these overdoes result in death. The misuse of and addiction to opioids—including prescription pain relievers, heroin, and synthetic opioids —is a serious national crisis that affects public health and social welfare. The Mississippi Public Health Institute aims to inform mental health professionals about the history, dangers and current trends of opioids. Participants of this training will be able to define opioids, their common prescription forms, their addictive qualities, and withdrawl symptoms.

Educational Objectives

After completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

• Provide an introduction to Opioids for professionals from multiple disciplines
• Discuss the most common prescription opioids as well as potential causes of opioid addiction.
• Explain common prevention strategies and the CDC’s Response to the Opioid Overdose Epidemic.

5.0 CE’s for:

• CHES – Certified Health Education Specialist
• CPH – Certified Public Health
• DMH-Addiction Therapist
• DMH-Licensed Administrator        
• DMH-Mental Health Therapist
• DMH-Community Support Specialist
• DMH-Intellectual and Developmental
• Disabilities Therapist
• MAAP-Mississippi Association of Addiction Professionals
• NBCC-National Board for Certified Counselors
• SW – (Social Work)