Receiving official designation from the Florida Board of Governors in 2022, the USF Center for Families Impacted by Substance Use (USF CFISU) aims to organize a platform for faculty and learners to promote research, innovation, and high-quality clinical care for families impacted by substance use. The Center is a recognized entity to increase collaborations across USF's clinical departments, colleges, and community partners with unrecognized potential due to their previously siloed structure.   

The importance of language is paramount to our philosophy; we understand that the use of the word “families¹” represents the many structures and compositions of those that care for patients we see, and the intentional use of the word "impacted" captures the broad experiences related to substance use:

• The challenges of active substance use within a family.
• The barriers to long-term recovery.
• The consequences of stigma and discrimination.

Furthermore, we recognize that there are individuals without a substance use diagnosis who may be directly or indirectly impacted. There are opportunities to improve overall patient-centric care and decrease barriers, and for that we are here. For example, others affected may include:

• Individuals being treated by a medical provider to care for chronic or complex medical conditions.
• Individuals caring for children with prenatal exposure to medications or substances.
• Individuals supporting someone with substance use or in their recovery journey.

Regardless of the connection, each individual is an integral part of the mission: to improve families' and communities' health and wellness.

For more information about the Center for Families Impacted by Substance Use, Research or Academic questions, or if you're interested in learning more: