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Working With HT Survivors: Substance Abuse

Overview

Many trafficking survivors struggle with substance abuse, and “opioid addiction in and of itself may be a red flag for clinicians to screen for trafficking.” Traffickers may use substance abuse as a means of control over their victim, or substance abuse may increase someone’s risk for being trafficked. Victims or survivors may start using substances during or after being trafficked to numb physical or emotional pain. By one estimate, half of human trafficking survivors struggle with opioid addiction.

Best Practices

  • Address the basic needs of survivors with substance abuse or addiction.

    • In addition to trafficking-related and trauma-related needs, provide access to “high-quality and long-term” substance abuse treatment.

    • Consider mental health support or medical treatment (e.g. needs relating to detox), when necessary.

  • Consider and address obstacles created by substance abuse or addiction.`

    • Substance use may create barriers to finding residential facilities, since many prohibit substance use or do not allow those with substance abuse issues.

    • Trafficking survivors who struggle with substance use or abuse likely have criminal records from drug use. A criminal record can lead to “collateral consequences, including job restrictions, the loss of the right to vote, and potential deportation for non-citizens.” Consider vacatur of the criminal conviction. See [cite to vacatur section of toolkit].

  • Include substance use disorder specialists as part of a broader “multidisciplinary team.”

    • Multiple resources suggest a trauma-informed approach for survivors with substance abuse issues.

Resources