Stigma and Bias in Behavioral Health

Racial and use bias has been demonstrated in the research related to Behavioral Health and Medically Assisted Therapy. The conclusion that has been drawn is that even well-meaning providers and staff hold biases that impact how and to whom they offer care and medicinal support for Substance Use Disorder (SUD). This lecture explores this research and supports participants in reflecting on, identifying, and mitigating this reality so as to offer equitable respect and support for everyone living with SUD.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

By the end of this presentation, participants will be able to:

• List the ways in which bias affects Behavioral Health Treatment and intervention for people living with Substance Use Disorder.
• Define the difference between implicit and explicit bias, and how to identify them.
• Recite at least three ways to identify and address their implicit bias in relation to their work in Behavioral Health.