IMPACT

Drug and alcohol addiction is a widespread and devastating issue in every community, and the opioid epidemic was named a public emergency in 2017. One in seven people face a substance use disorder in their lifetime, according to the U.S. Surgeon General. There is a revolution in recovery advocacy at this time and strong interest in films that offer resources for people with substance use disorders that highlight the gifts of recovery.

 

Research on the benefits of creativity is widely documented suggesting several outcomes for addiction recovery such as decreasing denial, reducing opposition to treatment, providing an outlet for communication, and lessening shame. Viewing, discussing, and interpreting art can help in group discussions, and can motivate people with addictions to change, moving them away from reflection into a state of action.

 

The nine stories in The Creative High reveal the transformative quality of the creative process, empowering us to wake up to our true selves. The documentary offers insight, resources, and solutions for artists, their families, recovery communities and those in the behavioral health field around the globe.