The complexities of substance use disorder and people with disabilities: Current perspectives

Abstract

This Supplement of the Disability and Health Journal presents research at the intersection of disability and substance use disorders (SUD). A better understanding of their complex relationship is needed to (1) inform the development of culturally relevant, accessible, and inclusive prevention and intervention efforts aimed at eliminating disparities in SUD prevalence among people with disabilities; and (2) improve access, quality and outcomes of SUD treatment and other recovery support services for people with disabilities. These eleven articles include themes around prevalence and identification of disability-related disparities, perspectives of people with lived experience of disability, and adaptations to substance use measures and interventions. They highlight the importance of a public health focus on the unique needs of people with disabilities and development of accessible and person-centered interventions. Integrative and holistic SUD prevention and treatment efforts, including pain management, are essential to address the complex needs of people with both disability and SUD.