Module 1: Substance Use Disorders in Rural Communities
Substance use disorders (SUDs) occur when an individual's use of alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal drugs leads to significant difficulties in various aspects of life. These difficulties can include challenges fulfilling responsibilities at home or work, physical or mental health issues, and social or legal problems.
Like other areas in the U.S., rural regions have seen alarming rises in opioid use and overdose rates in recent decades. Additionally, rural areas continue to experience faster growth in alcohol deaths than urban areas. However, rural communities often encounter unique barriers to SUD treatment. For example, rural areas have fewer healthcare providers and treatment facilities specializing in behavioral health than urban areas and rural providers often serve larger geographic areas than urban and suburban providers. In addition, the close-knit nature of rural communities can exacerbate concerns around confidentiality and privacy, and stigma surrounding substance use can deter individuals from seeking help.
Rural communities present unique challenges and opportunities for SUD prevention and treatment, highlighting the importance of tailoring approaches to meet the specific needs of these populations.
For general guidance on what to consider when starting a program in rural settings, see Creating a Program: Where to Begin in the Rural Community Health Toolkit.