Overcoming barriers: co-design of digital therapeutics for substance use disorders by people with lived experience

This commentary examines the imperative of including people with lived and living experience (PWLE) in the development of digital innovations for substance use disorders (SUD). Centering PWLE in design processes improves usability, equity, and effectiveness, particularly for individuals with multimorbidity and those facing socioeconomic marginalization. Participatory approaches - such as co-design workshops and community-led monitoring - alongside ethical and regulatory considerations, are critical to both the prevention and treatment of SUD. However, meaningful involvement is often hindered by limited funding, disparities in digital access and literacy, and complex data privacy laws. The commentary underscores the need for supportive policy frameworks and sustained investment that prioritize culturally sensitive, person-centered design. Ensuring digital health tools for SUD are informed by the insights and needs of PWLE is essential for creating inclusive, effective, and ethically grounded responses to the ongoing challenges of substance use and recovery.