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This issue looks at how opioid settlement money is being distributed in Louisiana, where sheriffs receive a larger share than in any other state. It also covers a new DEA advisory on nitazenes spreading through three northshore parishes, the rise of "residential-plus" treatment programs offering more intensive care than standard residential stays, and how personal experience with addiction inside the Trump administration is shaping federal recovery policy.
KFF Health New
Every state is receiving opioid settlement payouts from companies accused of flooding the nation with prescription painkillers and fueling overdose deaths. But only one state is directing 20% of those payouts to sheriffs — the largest carve-out for law enforcement nationwide. In Louisiana, sheriffs are elected, do not serve at the pleasure of another local official and have independent budgets.
NOLA.com
Due to a recent surge in the use of "nitazenes," a synthetic opioid linked to fatal overdoses, theDrug Enforcement Agency has issued an "urgent public safety advisory" to residents of three northshore parishes, including St. Tammany, Tangipahoa and Washington. According to a release from the DEA New Orleans Field Division, the an influx of these drugs, sourced from overseas, are often mixed into fentanyl and other drugs, along with fake prescription medications, to make them cheaper.
Newsweek
Traditional addiction treatment programs have been shown to be highly effective, but sometimes they don't go far enough. Since more than 40 to 60% of patients relapse after treatment, finding the right care is essential. Individuals with severe substance use disorders may benefit from a treatment pathway known as "residential-plus" treatment, which is a longer program of supervised care emphasizing a holistic approach for patients' medical, psychiatric and behavioral needs.
Washington Examiner
Familial experience with addiction among policymakers at the highest levels of the Trump administration is shaping new federal policies on drug and alcohol recovery. Kathryn Burgum, co-chairwoman of the Great American Recovery initiative and wife of Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, told the Washington Examiner in an exclusive interview that a new overhaul of federal recovery programs would not have been possible but for the multiple individuals within the Cabinet who have either struggled with addiction or had family members with substance abuse problems. Read More
Medical Xpress
Alcohol is second on the list of the most addictive drugs in America. By altering the brain's chemistry and triggering the release of pleasure-inducing chemicals like dopamine, alcohol can create a strong desire to repeat the behavior. At the same time, it can relieve negative emotions. The combination of pleasure and relief can make drinking difficult to control, ultimately leading to addiction.
Journal of Substance Use
The aim of this integrative literature review was to explore and describe existing psychoeducational programs to facilitate family members' support when living with youth with substance abuse. The integrative literature search was guided by the following inclusion criteria: Quantitative or qualitative studies or reports from experts and institutions regarding psychoeducational programs for families of youth with substance abuse.
Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly
Loneliness is a subjective emotional experience that arises when one's perceived relationships do not match their desired relationships. Loneliness can be experienced as transient or chronic (defined as loneliness lasting more than two years), with the latter demonstrating stronger associations with poorer health. Loneliness, whether transient or chronic, is associated with increased morbidity and mortality and has been consistently linked to poor physical and mental health.