Training Course on Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Treatment & Management

Module 1 – Foundations of Substance Use Disorders
Subtopics & Theory:
Definitions, classifications, and types of substances (alcohol, opioids, stimulants, cannabis, nicotine).
Neurobiology of addiction: brain reward pathways, tolerance, dependence.
Epidemiology and public health impact of SUD.
Social, psychological, and environmental risk factors.
Practical Exercises:
Case discussion: identifying risk factors in patients with SUD.
Group activity: mapping local prevalence and societal impact of SUD.

Module 2 – Screening, Assessment, and Diagnosis
Subtopics & Theory:
Screening tools: AUDIT, DAST, CAGE, ASSIST.
Comprehensive assessment: medical, psychiatric, social, and functional evaluation.
Diagnosing SUD using DSM-5 and ICD-11 criteria.
Identifying co-occurring disorders (dual diagnosis).
Practical Exercises:
Workshop: conducting patient interviews and assessments.
Simulation: using screening tools for early detection.
Case studies: diagnosing complex presentations with co-occurring disorders.

Module 3 – Evidence-Based Treatment Approaches
Subtopics & Theory:
Pharmacologic interventions: opioid substitution therapy, detoxification protocols, anti-craving medications.
Behavioral therapies: cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), contingency management.
Integrated care approaches for comorbid mental health conditions.
Individualized vs. group therapy modalities.
Practical Exercises:
Role-play: motivational interviewing and counseling sessions.
Workshop: developing personalized treatment plans.
Group discussion: evaluating effectiveness of pharmacologic vs. behavioral interventions.

Module 4 – Relapse Prevention and Recovery Support
Subtopics & Theory:
Triggers, high-risk situations, and coping strategies.
Relapse prevention models and behavioral strategies.
Peer support groups, family involvement, and community-based resources.
Long-term recovery planning and follow-up care.
Practical Exercises:
Workshop: creating individualized relapse prevention plans.
Simulation: crisis intervention during relapse scenarios.
Group activity: designing community support networks for sustained recovery.

Module 5 – Ethical, Legal, and Multidisciplinary Management
Subtopics & Theory:
Ethical considerations in addiction treatment: confidentiality, consent, stigma reduction.
Legal frameworks, policies, and regulations governing SUD care.
Team-based approaches: roles of physicians, nurses, counselors, social workers, and community organizations.
Program evaluation and quality improvement in SUD services.
Practical Exercises:
Capstone project: develop a comprehensive SUD treatment program for a hospital or community setting.
Peer review: evaluate and improve treatment protocols.
Case discussion: addressing ethical dilemmas and policy challenges