Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Most Common Substances of Abuse

1 hour
MCBAP-S: 1
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This course was created and provided by the Virtual Center of Excellence (VCE), a former project of the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network (DWIHN). Content and format will be updated in the near future to address current accessibility standards. If you are unable to access the content in this section, please contact the imp support team for assistance.

The "Substances of Abuse" course is recommended for clinicians and peer support specialists who wish to gain an understanding of common types of substance use and abuse. This would be appropriate for NBCC, QMHP.

Common Substances, Use, and Abuse

This course provides participants with an overview of the common substances that can be abused. This course will also provide scientific information on why substances are abused and the danger that poses to various communities. This course will also help participants develop an understanding of the differences between use and abuse, as well as how that factors into co-occurring disorders. 

Understanding Substance Abuse and Biology 

This course has been developed to provide insight into the biological side of substance abuse by communicating how the body reacts to common substances and how the body can become dependent on that substance. This course will also discuss common substance tests and provide examples of how many users attempt to beat these tests. 

Substance use disorders affect the user's brain function, both presently and permanently.

  • Develop an understanding of what substances can be abused.
  • Break down each specific, common substance that can be abused and understand the danger that poses to our communities.
  • Be able to understand the biological aspects of substance abuse and how your clients' bodies react to substances.
  • Information on testing for banned substances and popular methods for falsely passing tests.

Gail Chapman

MSW, LMSW

A Licensed Master's Social Worker in both clinical and macro practice, Gail Chapman is Clinical Operations Coordinator for Hegira Programs, Inc. In this capacity, she provides leadership in the management of Hegira's service delivery programs. Gail is actively involved in Wayne County's transformation to a recovery-oriented and consumer-centered system of care. She handles the day-to-day operations of Hegira's clinical staff development, customer service and activities addressing peer/consumer participation and education. Gail is energized by new ideas, values teamwork and partnerships, and believes in a collaborative work culture. She has experience designing and managing projects, hiring and supervising staff, building teams and resolving conflicts. She also has experience as a therapist, group facilitator, field educator and presenter. 

Gail earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Michigan in 2003, and her Bachelor of Arts degree in Community Relations from Michigan State University in 2000.

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What People Are Saying

The module was very informative. It was easy to navigate and thorough in its presentation of the information."
Photo of person giving the testimonial - Brooke C.