April 25, 2025

Addiction: The Science Behind (NOVA PBS)

This incredibly informative documentary from NOVA PBS discusses opioid addiction, highlighting that addiction is not a moral failing, but rather, a treatable chronic medical condition. It provides a general overview of the science behind addiction, detailing how dopamine, the reward pathway, and other brain regions change as a result of substance abuse, and how these changes result in drug-seeking behaviours and withdrawal. While there are several personal stories from those affected by addiction, the primary focus of this documentary is to provide education on the science behind addiction and the importance of evidence-based treatments.
April 25, 2025

KELOLAND News Special Report: Opioid Crisis

This news report will share stories of individuals overwhelmed by addiction, shedding light on the deep grief families are enduring. It will also examine local efforts by doctors and law enforcement to address the opioid crisis, as well as the resources available at both the local and national levels. Viewers will learn about the support systems in place, how they can contribute to the fight, and the critical needs of the community in tackling this ongoing crisis.
April 25, 2025

The Fix: Examining Rhode Island’s Opioid Epidemic

This documentary covers the opioid epidemic in Rhode Island specifically, but the messages within it are important for all communities. While there are some personal stories from people who use drugs, the main focus is on listening to the opinions of frontline workers who see the societal impacts of addiction on a day to day basis. It discusses the realities of the opioid crisis and what is truly needed to help people in their journey towards recovery. Rhode Island has made some important changes over the years and its uplifting to hear about how they have led to a reduction in drug use related harms.
April 24, 2025

Inside Canada’s Fentanyl Overdose Epidemic

SBS Dateline (Australia) wants to know what they can learn from the Canadian opioid crisis and the fatality of fentanyl, and use it as a warning for Australians. This news investigation discusses (1) why fentanyl kills so many young Canadians, (2) how it first came to Canada, (3) the importance of harm reduction services like supervised consumption sites, and (4) programs and support services in place to help people in several different ways.
April 24, 2025

Opiate Addiction: Strategies for Creating Long-Term Sobriety

This webinar provides an in-depth exploration of the unique challenges individuals with an opiate addiction encounter on their journey to achieving and maintaining sobriety. It will examine the physical, emotional, and social barriers that often complicate recovery efforts, including stigma, relapse triggers, and gaps in access to effective care. In addition to outlining these obstacles, the session will present a range of evidence-based strategies designed to support sustained, long-term recovery. Participants will be equipped with practical tools and interventions aimed at improving treatment outcomes, fostering stronger engagement, and building resilience among clients. The webinar will also address critical methods for reducing the risk of premature treatment dropout, emphasizing the importance of early intervention, individualized care planning, and ongoing support systems. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how to better serve individuals struggling with an opiate addiction and contribute to more successful recovery journeys within their communities.
April 24, 2025

Kensington: Inside America’s Largest Open-Air Drug Market

Peter Santello creates “videos about a world the media fails to capture” (source). In this video, he travels to Kensington, Philadelphia to speak with a local man named Buddy Osborn, who reached out to him to tell him about “the horrific realities of open-air drug markets.” Buddy and his organization, The Rock, help “to get kids out of crime and drugs and into a healthier environment built upon confidence and clarity.”
April 24, 2025

A Second Shot: Drug Addiction in Afghanistan

Afghanistan has one of the highest drug addiction rates in the world, with the Taliban estimating that around four million people are affected nationwide. Babrak, a former mujahideen fighter, was once part of this struggle. Now, he’s dedicated to helping others detox at one of the capital’s underfunded drug rehabilitation centers. Since the Taliban regained power in 2021, international aid has been withdrawn, and public services are on the brink of collapse. Despite these challenges, Babrak and a small team of medical staff continue to offer hope as the Taliban's harsh anti-drug policies are enforced.
April 24, 2025

Viewing Recovery Through a Trauma-Informed & Gender Responsive Lens

This webinar explores the connection between gender, trauma, and addiction by using a trauma-informed and gender responsive lens. It seeks to address the specific needs of trauma survivors by helping them break free of the shame and stigma associated with relapse. The goal is to provide an approach that allows “women to feel safe, connected, and empowered to thrive and flourish on their limitless journey toward healing and wholeness.”
April 23, 2025

Trapped in a Gambling Addiction That Almost Destroyed His Life

After struggling with gambling addiction, Ike Dweck slowly turned his life around. He has gone on to help others in need. He created the SAFE Foundation, an outpatient treatment program located in Brooklyn, New York. They serve as a reliable haven for those experiencing difficulties with cigarettes, vaping, prescription drug addiction, alcoholism, and compulsive gambling. In this video with That’s an Issue Podcast, he shares his inspiring journey from being a compulsive gambler to saving the lives of others struggling with addiction.