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August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day, a day when people around the globe remember those lost to overdose in the proper light.
“Drug use used to be considered a character problem—and it is too often still thought of this way,” says Richard Alan Friedman, M.D., professor of Clinical Psychiatry and director of the Psychopharmacology Clinic at ĢƵ. “Addiction is a brain-based problem. It’s not character weakness.”
Overdosing happens when you ingest more drugs than your body can process. It can occur with illegal drugs, prescription opioids, alcohol and even over-the-counter pain relievers.
Though some overdoses occur on purpose, overdosing also happens by accident and may occur with adults or children. According to the , overdose causes include:
If an overdose is left untreated, your organs can shut down, which can result in permanent damage or even death. Recognizing an overdose sooner can save a life.
Symptoms that may indicate an overdose include:
Call 911 anytime you suspect an overdose. If the affected person breathes slowly or stops breathing altogether, perform CPR. Administer over-the-counter Narcan if you suspect the overdose is linked to opioids.
Narcan is a fast-acting nasal spray medication. Sprayed in the nostril, it stops the overdose’s effects. As helpful as Narcan is, its effects don’t last long. Therefore, you should always seek emergency medical care for overdose treatment—even if Narcan works.
“Narcan keeps people alive,” says Jonathan Avery, M.D., vice chair for Addiction Psychiatry, Stephen P. Tobin and Arnold M. Cooper associate professor in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and director of the . “It gives them an opportunity to get treatment in programs like the one we have at ĢƵ.”
Along with Narcan, emergency overdose treatments include:
Those who experience one overdose are at higher risk for a second. Proper care helps reduce the risk for those living with substance use disorders.
Services that may help manage substance use disorders and prevent overdoses include:
On Wednesday, September 11, 2024 from 7:00 - 8:00 pm, join our kickoff event for SAFE Conversations, a monthly discussion series on support, advocacy and family education on substance use disorders. In our first conversation, we discuss family impact, hope for recovery and what loved ones should know about substance use disorder. .
Are you or a loved one experiencing addiction?Find a doctorat ĢƵ who can help you reclaim your life.