On October 16^th the second webinar in the series Global Challenges, Local Solutions, titled “Sensitised Treatment Approaches,” explored various holistic strategies for treating substance use disorders (SUDs) that emphasize the critical importance patient-sensitivity in treatment. Our speakers Rocío Suarez Ordoñez, Sana Ullah Rathore and Manashree, guided by our Programme Coordinator and Communication Manager Cressida de Witte and our International President Amy Ronshausen, shared their unique approaches and research on SUD treatment.

Amy opened the webinar by stating that sensitized treatment approaches remain particularly important. As per the latest World Drug Report, only 27% of people affected and treated for SUD are women, which is a huge gender gap. Youth also fare poorly. This statistic underscores the continued lack of inclusivity in treatment programs. While progress has been made globally and evidence-based practices continue to show great promise and positive outcomes in the treatment of SUD a “one size fits all” approach remains ineffective for some groups. It is important to consider the impact of trauma and recognize the gender-specific challenges that many people, especially women, face. Gender-specific programs address the unique biological, cultural and psychological needs of women and provide more comprehensive care.

Speakers:

Rocío Suarez Ordoñez: Rocío raised important questions about the digital presence of healthcare services, particularly in how Millennials and Gen Z increasingly seek health information and book appointments online. She highlighted findings from a study that examined clinics in the Caribbean, where 55% had no online presence and 45% had only a minimal digital footprint. Out of 82 programs surveyed, there was an overall lack of available information online. Rocio emphasized that improving online visibility could make a significant difference in accessibility to care and shared an easy, fast, and low-cost guide to help clinics enhance their digital presence. This would ensure that healthcare services are more accessible to those seeking them online.

Princess Nice David: On the behalf of Dr. Princess, the WFAD Team presented her research. Her presentation focused on the challenges of drug addiction in Nigeria and other countries of the global south, emphasizing the need for gender- and trauma -sensitive approaches to SUD treatment. Women, in particular those who have experienced trauma, face unique barriers such as stigma and a lack of appropriate facilities. Marginalized groups, including displaced persons and LGBTQ+ individuals, also struggle with limited access to care.

Sana Ullah Rathore: At the event, Sana Ullah Rathore discussed the best practices of the Mian Afzal Trust Hospital (MATH) in Gujranwala, Pakistan, which has been providing drug treatment and rehabilitation services since 2001. MATH, the largest facility of its kind in Punjab, offers a 145-bed comprehensive rehabilitation program. This includes a 12-week program combining detoxification and rehabilitation, with activities such as individual and group counselling, vocational training, and therapeutic farming to help patients reconnect with purpose and manage their lives post-addiction. The rehabilitation approach is holistic, integrating spiritual therapy, life skills training, and recreational activities like indoor and outdoor games. MATH also has a strong follow-up and aftercare program that provides counselling to recovering individuals and their families. Additionally, a reintegration and job placement initiative help patients find employment, supported by partnerships with local industries. MATH also operates a revolving loan program for youth, backed by UN-HABITAT, to support the financial independence of recovering individuals. This structured approach aims to ensure long-term recovery, skill development, and social reintegration for people overcoming addiction.

Manashree: Manashree’s presentation highlighted the grim reality the conflict in Manipur, India, driven by xenophobia, racism, and intolerance. These attacks have caused widespread suffering, displacement, and human rights violations, deeply affecting individuals and communities. Moreover, she highlights the lack of educational facilities. Her research examines the region’s socio-political tensions and the severe psychological, economic, and social consequences for victims. To address this crisis, Manashree proposed a comprehensive framework through an arbitration and reconciliation board, with psychologists and psychiatrists. They came up with a strategy that included a human rights-based approach, peacebuilding initiatives, comprehensive rehabilitation programs, community support networks that are cross generational, and ensuring justice for victims. Her aim is to create peace trough recovery as healthier societies are more resilient.

The Webinar was concluded with a Q&A. In the session, it was noted that finding free treatment centres in the Caribbean is difficult due to the lack of available information online. Moreover, the normalisation of drug us was discussed in a multi country context and concluded by Amy reporting drug policy, moving toward normalizing drug use while paradoxically increasing stigma. She called for the need to spread awareness and combat stigma through open conversations. All participants agreed that a collaborative effort can create change.