Alexis Saladino is a final-year PharmD candidate at the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy at Saint Joseph’s University.
When considering substance use, society often reduces an individual’s struggles to a lack of willpower and poor decision-making. Many people do not see the complexities of this disease and how genetics, trauma, mental health conditions, and socioeconomic factors can all play significant roles in the development and continuation of substance use disorders (SUDs). An SUD is a medical condition that requires comprehensive treatment approaches, including medical intervention, therapy, and support networks, to promote recovery and long-term wellness.
As a tribute to my father, who lost his substance use battle in 2022, I have attended the APhA Institute on Substance Use Disorders in Salt Lake City, UT, the past 2 years. This year, I was honored to be a 2024 Ronald L. Williams Memorial Fund recipient. Over the course of the last 2 years, the APhA Institute has given me the ability to overcome personal stigmas toward this condition, has given me the knowledge to effectively treat those with an SUD, and has given me the connections needed to continue hope and healing for myself, my family, and the patients I treat.
Regardless of personal experience with substance use, attendance at the APhA Institute is highly encouraged. The individuals I connected with have had the most profound impact on my life and I would not be the student pharmacist or person I am today without them.
Encouraging sentiments
The APhA Institute not only gives you the academic knowledge to better treat patients with an SUD, but also provides a platform for personal growth and reflection. Each day we were provided with the opportunity to attend different 12-step meetings—Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and Al-Anon. Meetings and sessions were run by pharmacists, known as “Dinosaurs,” who continue to commit themselves to this program year after year in an effort to support student pharmacists like myself and those who are still struggling to break free from an SUD.
In addition to running these meetings, “Dinosaurs” shared personal experiences about their journey with substance use and how they managed to transform their life and relationships. Listening to these individuals’ stories was incredible, as it showed that recovery is in fact possible, which is something that I had not yet had the chance to observe firsthand. Additionally, I appreciated the opportunity to learn from trained professionals and experts regarding current treatment practices and a more holistic approach to substance use treatment.
Inspired to be the change
The thing I will cherish most about the Institute is the connections I have made with those who have walked a similar path to mine. Sharing this experience with those who can understand the complex emotions that come with supporting someone with SUDs gave me immense feelings of support, comfort, and validation that I have yet to find elsewhere.
The APhA Institute has given me lifelong mentors, peers, and friends who have provided me with a sense of belonging and have given me inspiration to help be the change in others’ lives.