Policy Solutions for Native Communities to Prevent Substance Use Disorder and Overdose

In this episode, we share highlights from the National Council of Urban Indian Health’s recent virtual briefing for Congressional staff on the rising rates of opioid use and Substance Use Disorder in American Indian and Alaska Native communities. Jeremy Grabiner, Associate Director of Policy at the National Council of Urban Indian Health, interviews Kerry Hawk Lessard, Executive Director of Native American Lifelines, as the conversation explores frontline interventions, the urgent challenges facing Native communities, and ways Congress can help strengthen resources and support. 

Drawing on her experience, Kerry stresses the necessity that Native patients feel seen and respected when addressing stigmatized issues such as substance use disorder and mental health. Culturally grounded care builds trust, increases willingness to seek treatment, and improves health outcomes, while disrespect and stigma can actively drive people away from life-saving services. American Indian and Alaska Native people have the highest overdose death rates in the U.S. and the largest treatment gaps, compounded by systemic invisibility in public health data. Misclassification and undercounting prevent resources from reaching Native communities. Native American Lifelines responds through trusted partnerships, advocacy, and culturally rooted interventions. The episode closes with a discussion on the chronic underfunding for Native health. 

For more resources on Substance Use Disorder (SUD), visit NCUIH’s Overdose Prevention Resource HUB at ncuih.org/overdoseprevention.

To learn more about the Native American Lifelines, visit nativeamericanlifelines.org.