Creating Safe Havens: The Role of Collegiate Recovery Communities
Our biggest issue is right now in schools. It's not giving you the actual facts about drug interactions, not telling you that Xanax and alcohol don't mix together, not telling you that heroin has different forms and it can be used in different ways, and what you're looking at might actually be heroin, when you think it's something else.
Todd Zalkins takes us to East Carolina University in this episode, where he screens his documentary 'The Long Way Back' and engages with students about its powerful message. While on campus, Todd sits down with Jarmichael Harris, the ECU Collegiate Recovery Community Coordinator, and Claire Perry, the Collegiate Recovery Week Chair. They dive into the origins and operations of the Collegiate Recovery Community at ECU, shedding light on its crucial role in supporting students battling addiction.
Jarmichael and Claire open up about the opioid crisis and its devastating impact on college students. They emphasize the importance of breaking down the stigma surrounding addiction and recovery, highlighting how these communities provide a lifeline for students in need. The conversation also touches on the financial hurdles faced by collegiate recovery programs and the relentless efforts required to secure funding. One of the standout moments in this episode is their discussion on 'The Long Way Back' documentary.
Jarmichael and Claire share their thoughts on the challenges of reaching young people with messages about addiction and the importance of early education on this topic. They stress that starting these conversations early can make a significant difference in preventing substance abuse. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in collegiate recovery efforts and the unique challenges faced by college students today.
Through Todd's engaging dialogue with Jarmichael and Claire, listeners gain valuable insights into the transformative power of collegiate recovery communities and the ongoing battle against addiction on campuses.