New PSAs Encourage Others to Share Stories of Addiction and Recovery

NEW YORK, Feb. 25, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Partnership at Drugfree.org, a national nonprofit dedicated to finding evidence-based solutions to teen substance abuse, released today new television public service announcement (PSAs) promoting The Hope Share, an online story-sharing portal and community of support for those in recovery and their families.

An estimated 85 million people in the U.S. have been affected by addiction. The Hope Share aims to help break the stigma surrounding addiction and unite those who have been touched by the disease, giving them a place to share stories and, in turn, share hope. Now in its second year, the online community currently consists of thousands of active members.

The spot highlights true stories of people who have faced addiction. Mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, sons and daughters all speak candidly about their own, or a loved one's, struggle with this disease, and how their lives have changed since finding recovery. The television spot implores viewers to share their stories with The Partnership at Drugfree.org, because one person's story of recovery can change someone else's.

"I think it's important for people struggling with addiction and their families to share stories of recovery and to help inspire people to get and stay sober," said director Pamela Hanson. "Having lost my 22-year-old son to addiction four years ago, I wanted to make this campaign to help raise awareness about addiction, and try to help as many people as possible understand that while this is a disease, there is hope."

"Since its launch, The Hope Share has grown into a vibrant community of people who have courageously shared their personal struggles and triumphs, and candidly shared their paths to recovery in order to help heal and support others," said Kristi Rowe, Director of Branding & Integrated Marketing at The Partnership at Drugfree.org. "This new PSA is a vivid reminder of the power and self-identify that comes with recovery."

The ads were directed by Pamela Hanson, and production and editing was done by Consulate. Additional pro-bono partners included J. Walter Thompson for copywriting, graphics provided by Spontaneous and audio record and mix by Gramercy Park Studios. 

To view the new television spot, visit The Partnership on YouTube. To see stories on The Hope Share or submit your own, visit drugfree.org/thehopeshare.

About The Partnership at Drugfree.org
Ninety percent of addictions start in the teenage years. The Partnership at Drugfree.org is dedicated to solving the problem of teen substance abuse. Together with experts in science, parenting and communications, the nonprofit translates research on teen behavior, addiction and treatment into useful and effective resources for both individuals and communities. Working toward a vision where all young people will be able to live their lives free of drug and alcohol abuse, The Partnership at Drugfree.org works with parents and other influencers to help them prevent and get help for drug and alcohol abuse by teens and young adults. The organization depends on donations from individuals, corporations, foundations and the public sector and is thankful to SAG-AFTRA and the advertising and media industries for their ongoing generosity. If you or someone you know is struggling with drug or alcohol abuse, please call The Parents Toll-Free Helpline at 1-855-DRUGFREE.

SOURCE The Partnership at Drugfree.org