NCJ Number
132940
Date Published
1991
Length
0 pages
Annotation
In this videotape, three people tell their stories about struggles with drugs and HIV so as to guide viewers into treatment and preventive measures.
Abstract
The video uses still shots and first-person narrative to portray the experiences of the featured persons. The first story is told by "Shirley," a black woman in her early 30's who is HIV-infected, but essentially healthy. She describes two decades of drug abuse, recurrent arrests for crimes to support her drug habit, and futile efforts to remain drug-free. After trying various treatment groups, she finds a self-help support group that provides the encouragement and motivation she needs to deal with her feelings without resorting to the effects of drugs. In the second story, "Carlos and Tina," a Latino couple with a young son named "Dito" describe their efforts to cope with Carlos' AIDS condition. Carlos contracted AIDS through sharing needles in intravenous drug use. Tina has twice tested negative for the HIV. Carlos expresses his regret about having ever used drugs and talks about his efforts to prevent his son from using drugs. Tina and Carlos talk about the importance of condom use to prevent Tina from getting the HIV. Tina copes with her situation through attendance at support groups. The third story depicts the relationship between a young black man, "B.J. Johnson," who has been arrested for drug abuse, and his drug counselor, "Greg". The story includes support group sessions where the members discuss safe sex and the importance of resolving problems without resorting to drugs as an escape. The video lists resources for help with drug abuse and AIDS.