20-05-2025
Vermont Substance Use Conference held May 20 & 21
BURLINGTON, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44) – Throughout Tuesday and continuing Wednesday is Vermont's 2025 Substance Use Conference. More than 350 people gathered in-person and virtually to share information and create connections that will enhance their ability to serve, and support people impacted by substance use disorders.
The conference directly follows the health department's release of the Annual Fatal Opioid Overdoses Among Vermonter's Report, which highlighted the largest decline in deaths from opioid overdoses in Vermont since 2019.
MyChamplainValley spoke with Health Department Deputy Commissioner, Kelly Dougherty, and she tells us the conference includes people and professionals from all over the substance abuse spectrum.
From prevention, treatment, intervention, recovery and bringing it altogether so that folks can connect and learn something
Kelly Dougherty, Health Department Deputy Commissioner
The conference also includes breakout sessions and workshops which include talks focusing on different populations such as people involved with the justice system and other groups that are impacted by substance use.
If you are someone you know needs help, click here for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration national helpline, or here for Vermont's Mental Health and Substance Use Services.
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