This episode of Beyond Substance delves into the use of buprenorphine for treating opioid use disorders, featuring insights from Dr. Carol Dellinger and the personal story of Bailey Wisher. 

Dr. Dellinger discusses her extensive experience in treating opioid use disorder with buprenorphine. She shares insights into the evolution of pain management practices, the importance of addressing stigma, and the role of primary care in providing treatment. Dr. Dellinger emphasizes that buprenorphine is a legitimate treatment for opioid addiction, not a substitution for one addiction with another, and highlights the need for a compassionate approach to those struggling with substance use disorders.

Bailey Wisher shares her harrowing journey through addiction, beginning at a young age and leading to a life of chaos, incarceration, and ultimately recovery. Her story highlights the importance of healing from trauma, overcoming stigma, and the transformative power of support and community. Through her experiences, Bailey emphasizes that recovery is an ongoing process that requires internal work and a shift in mindset, ultimately leading her to help others in their own journeys.

Takeaways

• Buprenorphine has made opioid treatment more accessible.
• Primary care can effectively treat opioid use disorders.
• Stigma surrounding addiction can hinder recovery efforts.
• Buprenorphine helps manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
• Recovery is a continuous journey requiring support.
• Language matters in discussing addiction and recovery.
• Many people with addiction started with prescribed opioids.
• Community support is crucial for successful recovery.
• Addiction should be treated as a disease, not a moral failing.

Resources

• https://iuhealth.org/find-providers/provider/carol-l-dellinger-md-5716
• https://medicine.iu.edu/faculty/25112/dellinger-carol
• https://medicine.iu.edu/family-medicine/education/residency
• https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/65/rr/rr6501e1.htm

Chapters00:00 Connecting Through Stories
02:49 Understanding Buprenorphine and Its Impact
06:02 The Role of Primary Care in Addiction Treatment
09:12 Exploring Buprenorphine: Mechanism and Use
12:03 Combating Stigma in Opioid Use Disorder
14:48 Navigating the Healthcare System
18:07 The Journey of Recovery: Personal Stories
20:58 The Importance of Language and Stigma
23:47 Myths and Realities of Addiction Treatment
27:04 Bailey's Transformation and Healing
29:59 The Power of Community and Support
33:04 Looking Ahead: Future of Treatment
35:48 Closing Thoughts and Resources

Keywords
#buprenorphine #opioidusedisorder #addictiontreatment #primary care #stigma #recovery #personalstories #healthcaresystem #community support #addiction #trauma #healing #resilience #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #peersupport #heroin #recoveryispossible