The Daily
The Sunday Read: ‘Opioids Ravaged a Kentucky Town. Then Rehab Became Its Business.’
Jan 19, 2025
Oliver Wang, a New York Times contributor, shares powerful narratives from Louisa, Kentucky, where addiction and recovery intertwine. He highlights Ingrid Jackson's harrowing journey through addiction, shaped by familial trauma and societal struggles. The conversation shines a light on Addiction Recovery Care, portraying it as both a beacon of hope and a source of controversy due to its economic practices. Wang explores the community's resilience against the opioid crisis, emphasizing the vital role of supportive recovery systems in transforming lives.
44:36
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Quick takeaways
- Ingrid Jackson's journey highlights the personal struggles of addiction within Kentucky's opioid crisis, reflecting broader systemic issues and challenges in recovery.
- Addiction Recovery Care's multifaceted approach to rehabilitation aims to revitalize communities by integrating job training and support services for those recovering from addiction.
Deep dives
The Impact of Coal Mining on Eastern Kentucky
Eastern Kentucky's economy has long been shaped by coal mining, leading to the establishment of single-company towns that suffered when the industry declined. As coal companies exited, the region grapples with high poverty rates and health issues, including substantial disability from mining hazards. This environment made it ripe for the opioid epidemic, as pharmaceutical companies advertised heavily, increasing addiction rates significantly, especially within low-income communities. As a result, the area now sees some of the highest rates of opioid addiction and overdose deaths in the country.
