Tuscarawas library program helps visualize the opioid crisis in Appalachia
NEW PHILADELPHIA − The Tuscarawas County Public Library System has partnered with a team from Ohio University to host a program about the opioid crisis in Appalachia.
The 90-minute free program titled "Meet Destiny" will be held at the County’s Main Library, 121 Fair Ave. NW, at 6 p.m. March 30.
The program uses virtual reality technology to allow participants to meet Destiny, a 23-year-old woman from Appalachia who is pregnant and battling opioid addiction. With a lack of support at home, she needs the help of providers to assist and empower her through her pregnancy. No prior knowledge of virtual reality technology is required to participate in this program.
The opioid crisis has significantly impacted the people of Appalachia, including pregnant women. The rate of women addicted to opioids during pregnancy has quadrupled in 15 years. In 2017, it was reported that 5,047 mothers in Ohio were addicted to illegal drugs at the time of delivery.
Although Destiny is not a real person, her character was developed to illustrate situations faced frequently in Appalachia and will provide a springboard for conversations about the overall impact of the opioid crisis.
The community event will include a resource table about area addiction and recovery services. To register for this free program, visit the library’s online registration calendar at www.tusclibrary.org or call 330-364-4474.
A separate training session for behavior and addiction service providers will be held as a luncheon. Service agencies interested in having staff attend the luncheon session can contact the library at tcplevents@tusclibrary.org.
This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: Program helps visualize the opioid crisis in Appalachia
