Social stigma as a major barrier to evidence-based interventions to reduce opioid drug-related deaths: A qualitative analysis

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Miller, Nicole M. (2024) Social stigma as a major barrier to evidence-based interventions to reduce opioid drug-related deaths: A qualitative analysis. In: Division of Health Psychology Conference British Psychological Society 2024, 6-7 June 2024, Stirling Scotland.

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Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to identify the social and policy barriers and facilitators to implementing evidence-based interventions of naloxone and a supervised injection facility (SIF) to reduce opioid drug-related deaths in the Republic of Ireland (ROI) and Northern Ireland (NI). The research questions included exploring the perceived barriers and facilitators to these interventions and how perceptions can change. Design: This was a qualitative study informed by the Risk Environmental Framework. Methods: Semi-structured interviews (n=23) were conducted in ROI and NI with a range of stakeholders such as experts by experience (n=8), staff from low threshold services (n=9), and individuals involved in policy making (n= 6). Data were analysed using deductive coding reliability Thematic Analysis. Results: The findings illustrated social stigma within the media, health centres, and the community was a major barrier to naloxone use and SIF implementation. Policing, community intimidation and threats of paramilitary violence towards people who use drugs (PUWD) were reported to hinder naloxone carriage. Participants recommended using educational webinars, Town Halls, and a Citizens’ Assembly incorporating the lived and living experience of PWUD as tools to create social change. Conclusion: This study highlights the need for local and regional stigma reduction campaigns towards PWUD. Stigma campaigns should be tailored to incorporate the lived and living experience of PWUD, their family members, and the general community to change negative perceptions of the public and policy makers. This will help to create the social environment necessary for uptake of evidence-based interventions to improve the health of PWUD.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Subjects:	Psychology > Substance abuse/misuse Psychology
Depositing User:	Nicole M. Miller
Date Deposited:	17 Jun 2024 10:51
Last Modified:	24 Jun 2024 14:45
URI:	https://repository.uwl.ac.uk/id/eprint/12024