This project visualizes the systemic nature of the opioid crisis in the United States through a detailed complexity map. The map breaks down the crisis into four major sections: an overview and key (left), the role of Big Pharma in triggering the epidemic, the progression of overprescription and addiction cycles, and policy responses aimed at addressing the damage. It also highlights two critical feedback loops—one tied to the cycle of prescription and addiction, and another illustrating the social and economic fallout that perpetuates the crisis.

Using a structure inspired by chemical diagrams, I arranged hexagonal nodes to resemble molecular bonds, symbolizing how deeply interconnected each aspect of the crisis is. Key topics include aggressive pharmaceutical marketing, regulatory failures, fentanyl’s rise, harm reduction strategies, and the community impact of addiction.