Please read the article "Dope Sick: A harrowing story of best friends, addiction and a stealth killer" found on Week 1 of the Content section of Brightspace. You can also listen to this related radio broadcast here as an alternative:https://www.wbur.org/hereandnow/2016/08/09/dope-sick-death-fentanyl.

1. This was one of the earliest articles depicting the opioid epidemic in this country yet overdose deaths have continued to rise exponentially. What are your initial thoughts regarding some of the elements contributing to the continued escalationof addiction in our country?
2. Was there anythingyou observedin DJ's or Justin's childhood, family or experiencethat could have predicted an increased likelihood toward substance use? If so, be specific.
3. What were some successes and failures of the institutions(such as theschools,criminal justice system and treatment facilities) that these young men encountered?
4. Can you identify anything that may have contributed to any of the relapses? These can include stressors that were present as well as supports that were absent.
5. How do you think the current pandemic is and will continue to impact individuals with the disease of addiction?