About This Project

This project explores the fentanyl epidemic by gathering perspectives from those affected—people with addiction, healthcare workers, law enforcement. Through qualitative interviews, it aims to identify patterns in experiences, misconceptions, and systemic failures. The research asks how these perspectives shape public understanding and solutions. By uncovering overlooked insights, this project seeks to harm reduction, policy, and public awareness efforts for a more effective response.

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What is the context of this research?

The fentanyl epidemic has become a major public health crisis, contributing to a dramatic rise in overdose deaths across diverse communities. Efforts to address the crisis include harm reduction strategies, policy changes, and public health initiatives. Studies on similar opioid crises have shown that qualitative research can provide critical insights into addiction, stigma, and systemic failures.This project builds on that foundation by gathering firsthand perspectives from individuals directly impacted—people struggling with addiction, healthcare workers, law enforcement, and drug distributors (both legal and illicit). By exploring their experiences, this research aims to uncover gaps in current approaches, highlight overlooked aspects of the epidemic, and contribute to evidence-based solutions.

What is the significance of this project?

The significance of this project lies in its ability to humanize the fentanyl epidemic and provide a platform for those directly affected by it. Through interviews with addicts, healthcare workers, law enforcement, and distributors, the project reveals the multifaceted impact of fentanyl on individuals and communities. By sharing personal stories, it challenges the stigma surrounding addiction and fosters empathy. The project aims to raise public awareness, educate on the complex nature of the crisis, and encourage more compassionate responses from society and policymakers. It also seeks to spark collective action to combat the opioid epidemic, reduce overdose deaths, and improve support systems for those affected. Ultimately, this project will contribute to a broader, more informed dialogue around fentanyl and the opioid crisis, inspiring change and promoting efforts to put an end to the epidemic.

What are the goals of the project?

This project will conduct structured interviews with at least 30 individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those struggling with addiction, healthcare professionals, law enforcement officers, and individuals involved in drug distribution. Through these interviews, the research will identify recurring themes in their experiences, highlighting systemic barriers and common misconceptions. Additionally, it will analyze how current policies impact different stakeholders and where improvements may be needed. The findings will be compiled into a structured qualitative report to be shared with public health organizations and policymakers. To further drive awareness and foster informed discussions, the project will also host community discussions and presentations, promoting data-driven solutions to address the crisis effectively.