In honor of Black History Month, we asked our grant writer, Kenya Welch, to shed light on substance use disorders’ impact on communities of color, particularly Black communities. Welch shared that while the current overdose epidemic is seen as a public health crisis, Black Americans have been unfairly criminalized in the “War on Drugs.”

Unfortunately, the issue has been primarily focused on White suburban and rural communities, while communities of color, particularly Black communities, have experienced a significant rise in substance use disorders and overdose deaths. Shockingly, Black overdose deaths increased by 40% between 2015-2016, compared to the overall population’s 21%.

Moreover, from 2011-2016, Blacks had the highest increase in opioid overdose death rates involving synthetic opioids like fentanyl and fentanyl analogs, compared to all other populations. Even more disturbing is a recent report by the Boston Medical Center, which states that “while White fatalities have decreased by 2019, opioid overdose deaths among Black Americans – particularly Black males – are accelerating.”

It is no surprise that Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) have historically had poor outcomes in American healthcare statistics. This huge disparity in substance-related outcomes for Blacks in America is due to historic racism in the healthcare system and several complicated factors that affect treatment and recovery services in communities of color. One-size-fits-all solutions are not always effective. Therefore, SMART Recovery aims to increase its presence in diverse communities.

Here are some ways SMART can be more effective:

Use trusted community members as consultants and partners. Community members have a unique understanding of their neighbors’ needs. Their expertise and participation can help to build strong partnerships and collaborations.

Develop holistic approaches to treatment and care that can provide access to supportive services for those in recovery. Treatment and support services do not exist in a vacuum. They often require additional support resources such as mental health care, job training, and housing. SMART acknowledges the value of partnerships with community-based organizations that address the complex issues that complicate success.

Reduce barriers that may prevent people from accessing recovery services. For example, offer in-person meetings at locations accessible by public transportation and at times that are convenient for participants’ work schedules.

Representation matters. Use training resources that include diverse community voices, facilitators that show respect for multiple cultures, and services that recognize and address complex factors such as historical mistrust, community stigmas, and the need for privacy and confidentiality.

Approach services with humanity and compassion. Recognize that no community is the same, and each person has a unique story and path to where they are today. Our role in the recovery space should be grounded in respect, compassion, and empathy. We must open doors to spaces that are safe for everyone to walk through.

We would love to hear your ideas on how SMART can become a safe space for all. Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.