What are the emerging trends and opportunities for community service in addiction fields?

1 Peer recovery support

One of the most promising trends in addiction recovery is the use of peer recovery support services (PRSS). These are non-clinical services that are provided by people who have lived experience of addiction and recovery. They can offer emotional, informational, instrumental, and social support to people who are seeking or maintaining recovery. PRSS can complement and enhance professional treatment, as well as fill gaps in the continuum of care. Some examples of PRSS include recovery coaching, mentoring, advocacy, self-help groups, and recovery community centers. You can become a peer recovery support worker by completing a training program and obtaining a certification from a reputable organization.

2 Online and digital platforms

Another trend that is transforming the addiction field is the use of online and digital platforms to deliver services, resources, and information. These platforms can increase access, convenience, affordability, and anonymity for people who need help with addiction. They can also create new forms of community and connection among people who share similar experiences and goals. Some examples of online and digital platforms include websites, apps, podcasts, blogs, social media, webinars, online courses, and telehealth. You can participate in online and digital platforms by creating or sharing content, joining or moderating groups, providing or receiving feedback, and engaging in online learning.

3 Harm reduction and social justice

A third trend that is influencing the addiction field is the adoption of harm reduction and social justice approaches. These approaches recognize that addiction is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that is influenced by biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors. They also acknowledge that people who use drugs face stigma, discrimination, criminalization, and marginalization that can worsen their health and well-being. Therefore, they aim to reduce the negative consequences of drug use and promote the human rights and dignity of people who use drugs. Some examples of harm reduction and social justice initiatives include needle exchange programs, safe injection sites, drug decriminalization, naloxone distribution, and advocacy campaigns. You can support harm reduction and social justice by volunteering or donating to organizations that provide these services, educating yourself and others about these issues, and speaking up for policy change.

4 Integrative and holistic modalities

A fourth trend that is emerging in the addiction field is the integration of holistic and complementary modalities into recovery programs. These modalities are based on the premise that addiction affects not only the body, but also the mind, spirit, and environment. They aim to address the underlying causes and consequences of addiction, as well as enhance the quality of life and well-being of people in recovery. Some examples of integrative and holistic modalities include yoga, meditation, acupuncture, massage, art therapy, music therapy, animal therapy, and gardening. You can explore integrative and holistic modalities by trying them yourself, finding or creating a group that practices them, or learning more about their benefits and evidence.

5 Recovery-oriented systems of care

A fifth trend that is shaping the addiction field is the development of recovery-oriented systems of care (ROSC). These are networks of services and supports that are person-centered, family-oriented, culturally responsive, and coordinated across multiple sectors. They aim to provide a continuum of care that is tailored to the needs and preferences of each individual and family, as well as to support long-term recovery and wellness. Some examples of ROSC components include screening and assessment, detoxification, treatment, recovery support, prevention, education, employment, housing, and health care. You can contribute to ROSC by collaborating with other providers and stakeholders, advocating for funding and resources, and evaluating and improving the quality and outcomes of services.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?