Heroin use is on the rise in Connecticut, and Wilton is not immune.
Opioids such as OxyContin, Vicodin, and Percocet are routinely prescribed for pain. Concurrent with improved pain management has been a rise in addiction to these medicines in adults and teens. When pills run out or are difficult to obtain, heroin is often the next step.
This Wednesday, April 20, an important panel discussion, “It Starts in Your Medicine Cabinet: Protecting Our Families from the Opioid/Heroin Epidemic,” is being held to begin to bring the conversation out into the open.
The panel discussion will deepen understanding of root causes of opioid and heroin abuse and strategies for prevention; address signs and symptoms of trouble; and offer treatment options and a message of hope for those suffering from addiction. The event is open to the public and appropriate for students in grades 7 and up.
Dr. John Douglas, clinical director of Silver Hill Hospital’s Outpatient Addiction Program, will lead the panel discussion. Also participating will be Wilton’s School Resource Officer Rich Ross, Wilton Public Schools outreach counselor Kristin Dineen, two adults in recovery, and addiction counselor Vince Benevento of Causeway Collaborative. The moderator for the evening will be Karen Birck of the League of Women Voters.
This program is co-sponsored by Human Services Council, League of Women Voters, Riverbrook Regional YMCA, Silver Hill Hospital, Wilton Interfaith Clergy Association, Wilton Public Schools, Wilton Social and Youth Services, and Wilton Youth Council.
The panel discussion is being held in the Wilton High School Little Theater and will run from 7-8:30 p.m.; a Resource Fair will be available both before (6:30-7 p.m.) and after (8:30-9 p.m.) the talk.
Email Genevieve Eason for more information or with any questions.