“Step by step – A youth informed guide to OAT” is an animated, short, lived-experience video series about real youth’s everyday experience with opioid agonist treatment (OAT) as part of a treatment program. The animated series showcases podcasts hosts, Sam and Sasha, as they interview youth experts from Kelowna and Vancouver to explore what OAT was like for them, how OAT can help in treating opioid use disorder (OUD), common side effects to expect, and ultimately, what else besides OAT medications helped each of them in their journey to wellness. The videos hope to demystify and destigmatize OAT by providing authentic and relatable information for those seeking treatment for opioid use and to increase confidence for youth considering or starting OAT.
- “You’re worth it”: Defines what OAT is and its potential life-saving benefit within the context of the drug toxicity emergency.
- “The Daily Routine”: Provides descriptions of the different types of medications available for youth in British Columbia. Youth describe what being on OAT looks like in day-to-day life.
- “Side Effects”: Explains common side effects youth experienced while on OAT.
- “The Big Picture”: Explores the idea that OAT is only one tool that supports one’s wellness journey, and everyone’s treatment pathway is different. Youth share what other elements helped them while on OAT, including staying connected through support groups, friends, and peers.