Changing the Story: Evaluation Results of an Opioid Awareness Teach-In

Teach-Ins have historically been used as a way for educators to raise knowledge and awareness around an urgent social problem. We report findings from an action evaluation of the Bowling Green State University (BGSU) Opioid Awareness Teach-In, which was designed to (a) make clear that the BGSU community believes we can work to change the story of the opioid epidemic in northwest Ohio and (b) raise awareness of resources available for those struggling with opioid dependence in our community. Campus wide, anonymous questionnaires administered to students, faculty, and staff before (n = 275) and after (n = 140) the Teach-In indicated positive, and statistically significant, changes in knowledge of resources available, treatment options, and the attitude that BGSU is a community that cares about those struggling with opioid addiction. Qualitative feedback suggests that the Teach-In was helpful as a step toward changing the story and inspiring hope. In particular, our work to facilitate communication and awareness around opioid addiction, and reduce the silence and stigma associated with addiction, appears to have resonated strongly with participants.