Competency 3: Engage Diversity and Difference in Practice

Narcan Demonstration and Certification

In community college, I had to do a demonstration, and I chose to do it on how to administer Narcan and the importance of harm reduction. This experience directly connects to Competency Three because I had to recognize that people affected by addiction come from all walks of life, including those facing issues like poverty, mental health challenges, and inequalities in healthcare. By teaching others how to use Narcan, I helped provide a tool that could save lives, and I also learned how to communicate in a clear and supportive way that was sensitive to people struggling with substance use disorders.

This experience reinforced the idea that social workers must be culturally aware and non-judgmental, treating everyone with respect and dignity, regardless of their background. I also think it demonstrates a client's right to self-determination. Populations struggling with substance use disorders are not always ready to be sober, which can be due to their unique set of challenges and experiences. Offering harm reduction strategies to individuals and families can save lives until they are ready to take the next step.