Vermont's Battle with Opiate Addiction: Insights from Governor Shumlin and Filmmaker Bess O'Brien
If you're someone we should be scared of, you're going through the criminal justice system, but the vast majority of folks are people who are addicted.
What happens when a state finds itself in the grip of an opiate crisis? In this compelling episode of Right Turn Radio, Governor Peter Shumlin of Vermont and filmmaker Bess O'Brien offer their unique perspectives on the state's heroin epidemic. Governor Shumlin doesn't mince words as he describes the gravity of the situation, labeling it a 'full-blown heroin crisis'.
He sheds light on his efforts to tackle the issue head-on, emphasizing that those struggling with addiction are not to be feared but supported and helped. Adding a personal touch to the discussion, Bess O'Brien talks about her documentary 'The Hungry Heart'. The film takes viewers into the hidden world of prescription drug addiction through the eyes of Vermont pediatrician Dr. Fred Holmes, who works tirelessly with patients grappling with this disease.
O'Brien's documentary underscores the widespread impact of opiate addiction on families and communities, making it clear that this is a universal issue requiring innovative solutions. This episode doesn't shy away from the hard truths about the failure of the war on drugs and the urgent need for more effective strategies. It's a sobering yet hopeful look at how one state is fighting back against a devastating epidemic.
If you're interested in understanding the real-world impact of opiate addiction and exploring creative approaches to recovery, this episode is a must-listen.