The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported that American Indians and Alaska Natives—or AIANs—have the highest rates of substance use disorder (SUD), among the highest rates of illicit drug use, and the highest need for SUD treatment. AIANs also have high mortality rates due to drug overdose and alcohol-associated liver disease.
Seneca Scientific Solutions+ and the RCORP-Rural Center of Excellence on SUD Prevention at the University of Rochester launched Indigenous Community Conversations (ICC), which takes a community-based participatory approach to addressing SUD. ICC combines Indigenous storytelling, where individuals share their personal experiences with SUD, with evidence-based treatments like medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), highlighting their recovery journeys. These stories are shared through video presentations. ICC is intended to reduce stigmatizing beliefs around SUD by engaging an array of community members, leaders, and professionals in SUD-related conversations. We draw attention to stigmatizing beliefs so people can understand their impact and provide support for community members who may consider seeking help. Facilitated in a safe environment, the workshop aspires to empower people with the skills, confidence, and motivation to combat stigma throughout their communities. We want participants to continue the conversation, normalize support-seeking behavior, and inspire change. We emphasize the importance of community in recovery and sharing of Indigenous recovery stories.
The broader goal of ICC is to enhance community capacity to support individuals with SUD in a manner that upholds Indigenous self-determination. Specific key aims include:
Raise Awareness: Increase public understanding of the impact of SUD on individuals, families, and communities.
Reduce Stigma: Address stigma associated with SUD. Stigma often serves as a barrier to seeking treatment and increases negative experiences of individuals experiencing SUD.
Promote Prevention and Treatment: Highlight the importance of prevention strategies and promote access to evidence-based treatment and recovery.
Engage Communities: Encourage community engagement and sharing of local resources and strategies to address SUD.
Facilitate Dialogue: Create a platform for open dialogue where community members can discuss challenges, share experiences, and explore solutions related to SUD.
Support Recovery: Emphasize the possibility of recovery and the availability of support systems to help achieve and sustain long-term recovery from SUD.
Updated June 2025