Rural communities in California face unique challenges in communicating about overdose prevention. For example, it can be difficult to tailor messages to specific audiences when, in many rural communities, one person or group may play many roles. In addition, it can be difficult to identify and train trusted messengers who can provide a local perspective and be prepared to answer tough questions unique to rural communities.

To support rural stakeholders to communicate more effectively, Berkeley Media Studies Group (BMSG) will share messaging guidelines that draw on findings from a recent news analysis and learnings about framing overdose prevention in rural contexts nationwide.