Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Addiction: A Rural Reality

Addiction: A Rural Reality

Learn how the medical field played a role in the spread of the opioid epidemic and the astonishing facts that plague our communities today.
Three volunteer North Beaver Firefighters and Rescue workers stand in front of their station.

The North Beaver Volunteer Fire Department feels the impact of the opioid epidemic. Responding to more and more drug-related calls, it’s stretched thin.
The tall clock tower and looming white pillars of the Lawrence County, Pennsylvania Courthouse stands tall against the cloudy sky as another day in Drug Court begins.

As opioid addiction spread nationwide, Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, found itself caught in the epidemic’s grip. Learn how it began and what's being done.
A black and white image of an addict, dead beneath a sheet, arm outstretched, pills in the palm of their lifeless hand and littering the floor near their hand.

This special report focuses on the opioid crisis in rural Ohio and Pennsylvania. It was written to raise awareness, dispel myths and share solutions.

The opioid epidemic is costing communities big bucks. From private businesses to county governments, on down to the individual, no one is untouched.

It would be nice if we could simply stop using opioids, but it's more complicated than that. Learn more about when opioid therapy should be utilized.
Here a patient is given Methadone, one of the replacement treatment options for people with an opioid addiction.

There is no one-size-fits-all opioid substance use treatment strategy. But for any treatment to work, it must include ongoing counseling and support.

Following his own recovery, Jon Black works to disrupt the deadly cycle of opioid addiction by dedicating himself to sobriety and counseling others.

Talking to a loved one who is struggling with addiction can be difficult. Use these tips to help get the conversation started.
A diverse group of people sit and talk during a group counseling session.

In rural counties, detoxification and rehabilitation centers can be scarce. Learn more about how to get help in Guernsey, Huron and Lawrence counties.