In Our Backyard: The Opioid and Heroin Crisis
Audience: Students in Grades 7-12, Parents, Educators
Watch on YouTube
**Please note that while every effort has been made to keep this content age-appropriate, due to the sensitive nature of the subject matter, we do not recommend that viewers under 12 be permitted to view the video without prior screening and determination by an adult.**
Opioid abuse has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. This crisis impacts all communities regardless of race, religion, gender, and age.
This program explains how opioids impact the brain and body, how people become addicted to opioids and heroin, who is most vulnerable to addiction, and ways to prevent addiction. Interviews with addicts in recovery, medical and counseling personnel, parents and law enforcement professionals provide a powerful message about the devastating impact of opioids on families and their communities. The program also explores the resources available, where to turn for help, and the power of hope.
Suggested Resources in Fairfax County, Virginia
- The Chris Atwood Foundation — a nonprofit in Northern Virginia dedicated to saving lives from opioid overdose and supporting recovery from addiction
- The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board — a public agency that plans, organizes, and provides services for people who have a mental illness, substance use disorders, and/or developmental disabilities
- Encore Recovery Solutions — an addiction treatment provider in Northern Virginia
- Know the Rxsk: Use With Caution — a campaign to educate the Northern Virginia community on safe opioid use
Suggested Resources from the Federal Government
- Addressing the Opioid Crisis — U.S. Department of Health and Human Services agency
- Chasing the Dragon: Raising Awareness of Opioid Addiction — FBI & DEA Documentary
- Growing up Drug Free: A Parents Guide to Prevention — U.S. Department of Education & U.S. Department of Justice
- Opioids — National Institute on Drug Abuse
- Opioid Basics — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Suggested Resources from Other Organizations
- Classroom Resources — Operation Prevention
- Heroin & the Opioid Epidemic: From Understanding to Action — Partnership for Drug-Free Kids
- Opioid Education Resources — Prevention First, Inc.
- Resource Guides — D.A.R.E. America