You hear about the opioid epidemic often on the news, and justifiably so. The number of people struggling with heroin or other opioid addictions has skyrocketed over the past 20 years, with disastrous consequences. Sadly, that’s just a slice of a more significant problem. Learning about drug overdose has become one of the most pressing matters in our country today.
As an individual, learning about drug overdose issues puts you in a position to be a better citizen. Being more informed means you can better help spot problems among friends and family and push for better policies. Rehab and treatment services are available at facilities such as Santé Center for Healing, which offers a drug detox center in TX. We also play a role in helping people overcome their problems with substance abuse—contact 866.238.3154 to learn more about substance abuse treatment near me.
Drug Overdose Facts
Here are a few facts to consider when educating yourself on what a drug overdose is:
- An overdose means someone has consumed a toxic level of a drug that may interfere with essential life functions such as breathing.
- Drug overdose injury and death can happen with prescription drugs, illicit narcotics, and alcohol.
- Men are more prone to drug abuse than women.
- Over the last few years, opioids have made up most drug overdose deaths.
- Non-fatal drug overdoses are also a huge problem, making up a large percentage of emergency room visits.
If you or a loved one are struggling with a substance abuse problem, it’s time to get help. Seek assistance from a treatment or drug and alcohol rehab center such as Santé Center for Healing. We offer a full range of treatment options, including a drug detox center in TX.
How to Help Drug Overdose as an Informed Citizen
Understanding drug overdose issues can do more than prepare you to help a loved one suffering from an addiction. Here are some other ways to use knowledge of drug overdose facts to make a difference:
- Support local organizations such as Santé Center for Healing that provide rehab services.
- Educate your community about the dangers of prescription drugs and illegal narcotics.
- Advocate for better public policies related to substance abuse issues.
- Promote awareness campaigns on social media and other platforms.
- Talk to your children and other young people about the risks of substance abuse.
Although there’s still a long road to travel, learning about drug overdose issues is an important first step toward creating a healthier future for our communities. Arm yourself with the knowledge to help protect those you care about—and even make broader societal changes.
Getting Into Treatment
The notion of entering a treatment or alcohol rehab center may feel scary. But you don’t want to become another statistic. One of the things to know in learning about drug overdose is how to get help. Drug treatment centers can help put your life back on track. Knowing about the phases can help make it less scary:
- Assessment—You’ll start with a comprehensive medical and psychological workup.
- Planning—Doctors will establish a defined roadmap for treatment.
- Detox—Under the watch of doctors, you will step down your use of drugs to set the stage for the rest of your treatment.
- Counseling—Individual and group therapy sessions will help you build coping skills and understanding.
- Aftercare—Resources such as 12-step programs designed to help reduce the risk of relapse.
There is help out there for those struggling with substance use disorders.
Signs of a Drug Overdose
Perhaps the most valuable thing to learn about drug overdose is recognizing when it is happening. It will be different based on the person and the type of drug, but generally, some of the clues to watch out for include the following:
- Low rate of breathing or no breathing at all
- Gurgling noises
- Unresponsiveness
- Disorientation
- High body temperatures
- Hallucinations
It’s essential to seek professional help right away. Many states will not prosecute someone who may have been involved with drugs while saving someone from an overdose. There are also ways to resuscitate someone experiencing an overdose, whether by Narcan or other medical interventions.
Recovery at Santé Center for Healing
Death or injury from drug abuse is a significant risk when you have a substance use disorder. Drugs or alcohol interfere with good judgment, and you can’t always moderate your behavior in such a state. Learning about drug overdose and seeking treatment can help you turn a new page.
The experienced staff at Santé Center for Healing offers a complete suite of treatment resources for addressing drug and alcohol abuse, co-occurring disorders, mental health challenges, and more. We seek to treat the individual, no matter their needs, to point them towards sobriety and a brighter day filled with hope and promise. Contact Santé Center for Healing for a consultation today by calling 866.238.3154.
