A Short Film That Addresses Substance Use Disorders in Rural Communities and Strategies in Prevention and Treatment of Addiction

This research paper and accompanying video (link to the short film is here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1etDnUmEvkOds8J0EKnq1gnFO79-GggjY) offer insight into the current state of research collaboration surrounding substance use disorders in West Virginia. This professional project explores the importance of collaboration both in a research and clinical setting and in the social realm. The film was shown at the 2nd annual meeting for the Appalachian Node of the National Institute on Drug Abuse Clinical Trials Network on February 25, 2021. I interviewed 14 researchers and experts from a diverse range of disciplines who shared insights and strategies in the prevention and treatment of addiction in rural communities. The drug overdose death rate in rural areas is higher than in urban areas. This film explores how different strategies can be applied in rural communities to fight against drugs and substance abuse through prevention, treatment and rehabilitation