Ways to approach common SUD situations:
1) You’re on break with a CRNA colleague who admits: “I’ve been using alcohol more than I should to cope with stress, and I’m scared it’s getting out of hand.”
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“That’s dangerous—you could lose your license. You need to get it together.”
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❌ Outcome: This response increases shame and fear. It may prevent your colleague from seeking support.
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“Thank you for trusting me with this. You’re not alone—many providers struggle. Let’s talk about safe resources that can help.”
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✅ Outcome: This empathetic response validates their feelings and encourages them toward professional help.
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2) An SRNA confides: “I’m terrified—I’ve started misusing medications, and I don’t know what to do. I don’t want my career to be over."
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“You’ve ruined your chances. You should probably drop out before anyone finds out.”
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❌ Outcome: This shaming response fuels hopelessness and isolation.
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“I can hear how scared you are. There are confidential programs designed to help providers recover and keep their careers safe. Let’s connect you to the right resources.”
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✅ Outcome: This balances empathy with action, showing that recovery is possible without career-ending judgment.
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3) During a pre-op huddle, another provider whispers: “Be careful, this patient’s an addict. They’re just drug-seeking.”
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“Yeah, patients like that are always difficult. Let’s just get through the case.”
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❌ Outcome: This reinforces stigma and biases the team against the patient.
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“Actually, they’re a patient with substance use disorder. They deserve the same respect and care as anyone else.”
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✅ Outcome: This models stigma-free language and sets a professional, compassionate tone for the team.
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4) You notice a colleague who was once punctual and meticulous is now frequently late and seems distracted during cases.
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“They’re becoming unreliable. We should keep them off tough cases until they shape up.
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❌ Outcome: This dismisses the underlying issue and fuels stigma. It may push the colleague further into isolation.
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“I’ve noticed some changes lately. I care about you—are you doing okay? If you want, I can help connect you with support.”
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✅ Outcome: This opens a non-judgmental door for conversation and offers support instead of criticism.
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5) Your colleague tells you: “I think I have a substance problem, but I’m terrified if anyone finds out, I’ll lose my career.”
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“Yeah, reporting this could ruin you. It’s better if you just keep it quiet and try to handle it yourself.”
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❌ Outcome: This response reinforces fear and delays treatment, putting both the colleague and patients at risk.
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“I hear your anxiety, and it makes sense. But you don’t have to go through this alone—there are safe, confidential programs designed specifically for providers.”
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✅ Outcome: This acknowledges the fear while guiding them toward supportive, non-punitive resources.
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