Question 2: How do you see APA’s role in providing assistance toward addressing the opioid epidemic

Sandy’s Response:

The opioid epidemic presents a critical societal challenge where psychology can contribute both uniquely and significantly. We bring deep scientifically-based expertise regarding behavioral, non-pharmacological interventions for pain management and related conditions. We bring a bio-psycho-social perspective to opioid abuse treatment, identifying earlier co-existing conditions and developing more targeted strategies for treatment, respectful of specific populations and multicultural contexts affected. We also address the rehabilitation and disability issues from a workforce, workplace systems and community perspective. And, hopefully, we can directly address the hopelessness and despair that both creates and results from the insidious treachery of the opioid abuse cycle.

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