2023 (2 BBH CEUs in Suicide Prevention)

Recorded presentation available for CEs (and OPI Renewal Units).

This class details the complex relationship between opioids and suicide, looking at Intentionality on a spectrum. This class is presented from a Psychology perspective looking at biology, psychology, and social issues (both on an individual level and from a public health perspective).

The problem will teased apart by looking at the intersections of opioids and suicide: opioid abuse, opioid overdose, and suicide. We’ll also look at where fentanyl fits into the crisis specifically in Montana.

Looking at the biology, we’ll review the brain science behind addiction, explaining why individuals are incapable of rational thinking. Together the class will look at how stigma plays a fundamental role in creating barriers, leaving individuals who need the most help unwilling to access it.

Finally, we’ll look at ideas and solutions considering all three perspectives: Biology, psychology, and social.