What is addiction, really? This session reframes substance use as a signal of distress rather than a moral failing—and gives post-acute care teams the practical tools to respond well. Drawing on current national data, the classic "Rat Park" research on connection and community, and a salutogenic, strengths-based lens, presenter Michael Goldsmith, LMSW, walks participants through the full clinical picture: distinguishing use from abuse and dependence, choosing the right evidence-based screening tools, understanding pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment options, and—perhaps most usefully—recognizing and managing manipulative behaviors without letting them fracture the care team. Expect candid discussion, real-world scenarios, and concrete, consistent strategies grounded in Motivational Interviewing that you can bring back to your building on Monday morning.

Nurse Learner Outcome:

Learner Objectives:

1. Differentiate among substance use, substance abuse, and substance dependence using established clinical criteria.
2. Identify at least four evidence-based screening/assessment tools appropriate for adult and geriatric populations (e.g., CIWA-Ar, CAGE, DAST-20, SMAST-G, SBIRT, AUDIT).
3. Contrast the salutogenic ("origin of health") approach with the traditional pathogenic model of substance use.
4. Recognize the presentations of maladaptive manipulative behavior and apply consistent, non-punitive, team-based boundary-setting interventions.
5. Explain the core elements (F.R.A.M.E.S.) and guiding principles of Motivational Interviewing and how they build internal motivation for change.