The role of social work and peer support workers in addressing the opioid crisis. Issue 6 (2nd November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Serrano, Michael D.; Conley, Timothy B.
• Is Part Of: Social work in mental health. Volume 19:Issue 6(2021)
• Page Start: 517
• Page End: 525
• Publication Date: 2021-11-02
• Subjects: Peer support workers -- recovery -- opioid overdose prevention -- social work -- minority communities; Psychiatric social work -- Periodicals; 362.2042505
• DOI: 10.1080/15332985.2021.1929661
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1533-2985

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Peer-led interventions to address the opioid crisis are on the rise. This brief report discusses the historical and contemporary social work role and Peer Support Workers (PSWs) by exploring the literature. The authors illuminate the lack of social work addiction training within higher education, highlighting practical strategies that social workers can use as interventions. Moreover, the work explores social work's role in maximizing the PSW workforce to address Hispanic and Black communities most impacted by opioid overdoses. Combining PSWs with clinical social worker's roles will enhance recovery while addressing vital psychosocial issues.