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The film will be shown at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 23, at Wilton High School’s Little Theater, 395 Danbury Road, Wilton.
“This is not your tired old addiction rehab story splashed across reality TV or tabloid magazines,” said the film’s producer, Greg Williams, who has been in long-term recovery since age 17. “There are no needles hanging out of people’s arms, pictures of the brain, or fried eggs in a pan.”
The screening is sponsored by Silver Hill Hospital, the Human Services Council’s Mid-Fairfield Substance Abuse Coalition, Wilton Public Schools, Wilton Social Services, Wilton Youth Services and the Wilton Youth Council.
"The Anonymous People" shines a light on what life is like without drugs or alcohol by telling the stories of real people in long-term recovery. “Addiction is a disease that affects brain chemistry, not a character flaw,” says Dr. Eric D. Collins, physician-in-chief at Silver Hill Hospital. “These disorders affect people of all walks of life, from teenagers to business executives, and one should not feel ashamed for seeking treatment.”
As part of the event, a number of organizations will participate in a prevention, treatment and recovery services fair beginning at 6 p.m. The film screening will begin at 7 p.m., followed by a Q&A session with Williams and Collins beginning at 8:30. Hors d'oeuvres will be provided by students in the Wilton High School culinary arts program.
According to the 2011 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 23.5 million Americans needed treatment for a drug or alcohol addiction, but only 11.2 percent received it. While not the sole reason, the social stigma surrounding addiction to alcohol and other drugs contributes to the gap in treatment of substance use disorders.
Due to the graphic nature of the film, it is recommended for high school students and adults only.
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