Uncovering the Opioid Epidemic in Appalachia: A Former User's Journey

🙏Oxycontin was the drug of choice in the late '90s and early 2000s, but now the main drugs in Appalachia are meth and Fentanyl.

🚑The opioid epidemic is not limited to Appalachia; it has spread across the entire country.

🙅Drug addiction does not discriminate based on upbringing or socioeconomic status.

👨‍💻People from all walks of life, including teachers and business owners, can become addicted to opioids.

🛑The current drug problem includes marijuana that is laced with Fentanyl, making it highly dangerous.

What were the main drugs in Appalachia during the late '90s and early 2000s?

—During that time, Oxycontin was the drug of choice in Appalachia.

Is the opioid epidemic limited to Appalachia?

—No, the opioid epidemic has spread across the entire country.

Who can become addicted to opioids?

—Anyone can become addicted to opioids, regardless of their upbringing or socioeconomic status.

Are teachers and business owners also affected by the opioid epidemic?

—Yes, people from all walks of life, including teachers and business owners, can become addicted to opioids.

What is the current drug problem in Appalachia?

—The current drug problem includes marijuana that is laced with Fentanyl, making it highly dangerous.

00:58The video starts with a brief introduction to Somerset, Kentucky, and the history of drug usage in the Appalachian region.

01:09The speaker explains how Oxycontin was prevalent in the late '90s and early 2000s but has been replaced by meth and Fentanyl.

01:17A local who used to be a drug user is introduced, and the video follows his journey from addiction to recovery.

07:08The video explores the factors that contribute to drug addiction, highlighting the role of peer pressure and the desire to fit in.

09:47The opioid epidemic in Appalachia is discussed, with a focus on the rise of Oxycontin, pill mills, and the Florida pill pipeline.

13:18The video delves into the current drug situation in Appalachia, including the prevalence of heroin, Fentanyl, and ice, which is supplied by the cartel.

14:57The speaker reflects on the addictive nature of opioids and the gradual progression from using to addiction.

15:34The video concludes with a visit to a local hamburger joint and a reflection on the beauty of Monticello and the proximity of the drug problem.