This episode of VICE: High Society examines why ecstasy has become increasingly dangerous in the United Kingdom, where stronger pills, higher MDMA concentrations, and unpredictable adulterants have contributed to a rise in drug-related harm. Speaking with researchers, harm reduction advocates, and drug checking services, the documentary explores how changes in the illicit drug market have increased the risks associated with ecstasy use. It also highlights practical harm reduction strategies, including drug testing and dose awareness, that can help reduce the likelihood of overdose and other serious health consequences.
This documentary follows homeless children living on the streets of Nairobi, Kenya, where poverty, neglect, and inhalant addiction have created a devastating humanitarian crisis. Relying on glue and other toxic inhalants to escape hunger and hardship, many spend their days in a drug-induced haze while struggling to survive in makeshift camps surrounded by violence, disease, and despair. Through their stories, the film reveals the human cost of addiction and the desperate circumstances that leave thousands of vulnerable children with few opportunities to escape life on the streets.
TOPICS: Homelessness, Inhalant Use Disorder, Inhalants, Poverty, Youth
This documentary examines the devastating impact of the opioid crisis on Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, where addiction, overdose, and limited treatment resources have placed enormous strain on a small community. Through the experiences of a dedicated harm reduction worker, people living with opioid use disorder, and a family desperately trying to save their son, it explores the realities of addiction while highlighting the importance of compassion, harm reduction, and community support in the face of an ongoing public health crisis.
TOPICS: Canada, Fentanyl, Harm Reduction, Opioid Crisis, Opioid Use Disorder, Opioids, Overdose, Personal Stories, Poverty, Stigma, Youth
Do It For Her is a short drama that follows Bilal, a university student whose hidden gambling addiction begins to unravel his finances, relationships, and future. As the pressure of debt and secrecy grows, he reaches a crossroads where he must decide whether to continue down a destructive path or begin his journey towards recovery—for himself and for the people who love him, especially his mother. Created to raise awareness of gambling harms among young people and diverse communities, the film encourages open conversations about addiction and highlights the importance of seeking support.
TOPICS: Behavioural Addictions, Gambling Disorder, Youth
This short film follows Brady Thornhill, a teenager whose gambling addiction leads him into a cycle of payday loans, mounting debt, and online gambling. As his financial situation spirals out of control, the consequences begin to affect every aspect of his life, leaving him feeling trapped and increasingly hopeless. Through Brady's story, the film highlights the devastating impact gambling addiction can have on young people and the dangers of chasing losses through borrowed money.
TOPICS: Behavioural Addictions, Gambling Disorder, Suicide, Youth
Ketamine has become increasingly common among young people in the UK, where its low cost and reputation as a versatile party drug can obscure the risk of serious harm. Following journalist Matt Shea through Bristol’s nightlife and free-party scene, this report explores how recreational use can progress into dependence, debilitating bladder damage, and other long-term health complications. Personal accounts, clinical explanations, and conversations with people involved in the drug trade reveal why ketamine has become so firmly associated with a generation—and why its growing popularity is raising urgent public health concerns.
As the unregulated drug supply becomes increasingly unpredictable, new combinations of synthetic substances are making overdoses more difficult to prevent and treat. This documentary investigates the emergence of "benzo dope" and "tranq"—street drugs containing fentanyl mixed with benzodiazepines or xylazine—and examines the devastating impact these combinations are having on people, families, healthcare providers, and frontline outreach workers. Through firsthand accounts and expert perspectives, this resource explores how a rapidly changing drug supply is reshaping the overdose crisis and reinforcing the importance of harm reduction, education, and timely access to care.
Alcohol has played a central role in British history and culture for centuries, yet its impact on society is often overlooked. This thought-provoking documentary explores the nation's complex relationship with drinking through interviews with addiction specialists, medical experts, researchers, and people with lived experience, including Russell Brand. Examining the science of alcohol, binge drinking culture, industry influence, and the stigma surrounding addiction, this resource encourages viewers to reconsider one of society's most accepted drugs and the widespread harm it can cause.
Growing up with a parent struggling with alcohol addiction can leave lasting emotional wounds that often continue into adulthood. Through an honest conversation with Calum Best, this documentary explores the impact of losing his father, football legend George Best, to alcoholism while reflecting on the challenges faced by children living with parental addiction. Blending personal experience with expert insight, this resource highlights the importance of breaking stigma, supporting young people affected by addiction, and finding healing through understanding, connection, and open conversation.
