The opioid crisis has reshaped conversations around pain management, addiction, and public health. But are current policies truly serving those in need? At PainConnect, award-winning journalist, neuroscience writer, and harm reduction advocate Maia Szalavitz will present “Painful Narratives: Harm Reduction and Opioid Policy.” Scheduled for Friday, April 4^th at 9:00 am, this powerful session will challenge conventional thinking and explore how compassionate, evidence-based strategies can create better outcomes for both pain patients and people with substance use disorders.

What to Expect

Drawing from decades of research, reporting, and personal experience, Szalavitz will delve into:

• The Science of Harm Reduction: Why harm reduction approaches save lives and improve public health.
• Opioid Policy and Pain Care: How drug policies impact pain patients, addiction treatment, and medical decision-making.
• Shifting the Narrative: How language and stigma shape public perception and influence policy decisions.

Why It Matters

Szalavitz is among the most influential voices in drug policy and addiction science today. As a best-selling author and journalist, she has been at the forefront of efforts to reframe addiction as a medical condition rather than a moral failing. Her groundbreaking work—including Undoing Drugs and Unbroken Brain—has helped shift public discourse toward more humane, science-driven approaches to addiction and pain management.

This session is essential for clinicians, researchers, and policymakers seeking to navigate the intersection of pain care and opioid policy with greater understanding and compassion.

Join Maia Szalavitz after her talk at PainConnect in the Exhibit Hall to ask questions and be part of the conversation that is shaping the future of pain and addiction care.

Register today and rethink what you know about opioids, harm reduction, and policy reform!