Public perceptions of opioid misuse recovery and related resources in a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults

Summary

This national public opinion survey sought to understand how people perceive “recovery” in the context of opioid use disorder and the resources available to support it. Responses highlighted differences depending on individual recovery experience. Overall, respondents most often defined recovery as seeking professional help. Those with personal opioid misuse history more often included “enhanced quality of life” and “having a sense of purpose” in their recovery definition, and were less likely to name “abstaining from substance use.” Among potential resources, “residential rehabilitation program” was identified as the most helpful resource for recovery, while prescribed medication received a relatively low ranking overall. Those with family/friend opioid misuse history ranked prescribed medication as less helpful than others.

Associated JCOIN Study Title: AmeriSpeak Brief Opioid Stigma Survey (026)

Publication Year: 2024

Lead Author: Olivia Golan

Journal: Addiction

Publication Type(s): Survey Finding