unit5 Interacting with the Medical Humanities

2. Understand the negative impact of addiction on self and others.

12. Learn barriers and techniques in starting conversations about substance abuse.



Unit 5 Section 3 Exercise 8Talking to patients about substance abuse

Clinical correlate #6
Motivational interviewing
Brief interventions

Jeanne Gearon discusses the stigma health professionals attach to patients who hurt themselves and others through substance use. View the video and answer the study questions.

In the following segment, Dr. Gearon also talks about the importance of bringing up substance abuse in the primary care intervew.

Study questions

1. What factors, in your view, lead health care professionals’ negative views of substance users? Identify myths about substance abuse. What approach would help increase tolerance towards patients with addiction?

2. Reflect on how you bring up the issue of substance abuse and what factors limit your discussions of this topic with patients.