The Opioids Epidemic: How I Became a Heroin Addict

Epidemic addiction to opioids (a relatively-new phenomenon, although the word “opioid” actually dates from the 1950s) is the subject of this cautionary guidance program focusing on substances that attach to the opiate receptors of the brain, including heroin, oxycodone, Percocet, and Fentanyl (which is here stated to have killed rock star Prince). Combining illustrative graphics with expert commentary from Tom Janette of the Narcotic Enforcement Officers Association, clinical social worker Frank L. Greenagle Jr., and Michelle Lipinsky, director of Massachusetts's Northshore Recovery High School, much of the running time here is devoted to reminiscences by younger users in recovery, either speaking alone, in group settings, or with shadowed faces. Although hampered by some lame dramatic recreations (fake throwing up?), these are heart-wrenching stories about initially getting hooked, the lengths that addicts went to stay high, and the subsequent physical, financial, and relationship tolls they paid. Also featuring a PDF teacher's guide, this honest look at a serious American epidemic is recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Williams-Wood)