Get a better understanding of the opioid epidemic

Trace the causes behind the unprecedented growth in the use of prescription opioids and the devastating impact these drugs are having in virtually every part of America. The special “Understanding the Opioid Epidemic” is airing on Arizona PBS on Apr. 21 at 9 p.m. 

WATCH: Understanding the Opioid Epidemic

Through personal stories and interviews with experts, “Understanding the Opioid Epidemic” reveals the tragic impact of the overuse of prescription painkillers on individuals, families and communities. They are stories that often begin with medical treatment for moderate to severe pain that evolve into drug addiction and death. In addition to the personal stories of those impacted by the opioid crisis, the documentary explores the dramatic increase in the use and acceptance of prescription painkillers.

The program addresses possible solutions to the opioid epidemic including more non-drug treatment for pain, improved opioid prescribing, and reducing the amount of opioids produced and prescribed in America. The best solution is preventing people from becoming addicted in the first place. But there is also a critical need fore more and better treatment of those already addicted to opioids.