Framing substance use: Challenging assumptions, deepening understanding

This webinar explores how perspectives on substance use shape the design and delivery of programs and services for people who use drugs. Tailored for service providers, it includes an overview of the factors that influence people’s motivations for using substances, recognizing that substance use exists along a spectrum and can include a wide range of patterns and experiences. Invited speakers examine how substance use is understood and the benefits and limitations of different framings, including medicalized approaches.

By challenging common assumptions, this session highlights how different ways of framing substance use can shape real-world practice and service delivery. Participants are encouraged to reflect on the impacts of these perspectives and consider approaches that support more compassionate, person-centred care.

This webinar is part of an ongoing capacity building series highlighting fundamentals of harm reduction principles and practices. 

Moderator: Kaela Pelland, CATIE

Speakers:

• Dr. Sara Davidson, Fredericton Downtown Community Health Centre
• Amber Streukens, Rural Empowered Drug Users' Network (REDUN)
• Bernie Pauly, University of Victoria