Should the veterinary community receive more training in substance use disorders? Phil Richmond, DVM, CAPP, CPHSA, CCFP, thinks it is important and reveals his own story, challenges the stigmatization of alcohol use and SUD, and the need for compassion along with resources that are readily available.
We know that, at some point in their career, 10% to 15% of medical professionals are going to meet criteria for alcohol or substance misuse.” – Phil Richmond, DVM, CAPP, CPHSA, CCFP
Source: AAHA NEWStat, September 23, 2023. Link. In the brain of an individual with SUD, the frontal cortex gets bypassed, says Richmond. There isn’t rational thinking. The reward center hijacks the thought process and it’s just overwhelming.