Major
Nursing
Advisor
McIntyre, Kathleen
Advisor Department
Women's Studies
Date
5-2022
Abstract
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic Rhode Island has experienced a sharp increase in reported overdoses and illicit substance use. In 2020, 73% of all reported overdoses involved the substance fentanyl. This project is a collective work of educational PowerPoint presentations, infographics, and fact sheets aimed at exploring the psychological and physiological pathways of addiction and addictive substances. The target population is young adults within Rhode Island, 18-22 years of age. Increased focus of the brain reward circuit is forefront and referenced in all materials. The specific addictive substances explored include opioids, cannabis, fentanyl, and inhalants. These presentations are aimed at describing the chemical properties of the substances and the intrinsic properties that make them addictive. Heightened focus is brought to drug use statistics within the state of Rhode Island, as well as the legality and scheduling process of drugs. Awareness is brought to the signs and symptoms of drug overdose as well as what actions should be taken if exposed to the situation. Resources within the state of Rhode Island for drug misuse, including Providence Safe Stations, are identified and explored.