This is Nebraska Drug Overdose Week in Nebraska and the Department of Health and Human Services is educating people about drug overdoses, connect those who need support and treatment to help and provide support to those who have lost a loved one to overdose.
While Nebraska’s drug overdose rate remains near the bottom of the national list, the impact they have on the state is significant, and the help of Nebraskans to further lower overdose rates is necessary.
In recent years, synthetic opioids like fentanyl have been mixed into other drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine, causing overdose cases to rise. According to lab testing for the Drug Enforcement Agency four out of every 10 pills with fentanyl contain a potentially lethal dose.
On Wednesday, August 31st, the State Capitol will be lit up in purple in honor and remembrance of those who have died as a result of a drug overdose, to show support for people who have lost a loved one to overdose and to send a strong message to individuals struggling with substance use that recovery is possible.
“Prevention, treatment, and recovery services all play a part in helping those with substance use disorder live their best lives,” said Sheri Dawson, director of the Division of Behavioral Health. “We continue to advocate for treatments, as well as recovery-ready workplaces and peer support by those with lived experience. By lighting up the State Capitol, our homes, our place of business, and our personal attire in purple, the people of Nebraska are decreasing the stigma around behavioral health through understanding, compassion, and support.”
DHHS is also highlighting the importance of Naloxone, also known as Narcan. It blocks the effects of the opioid overdose and restores normal breathing. Since the effects of naloxone are temporary and typically last 30 to 60 minutes, it is important to call 911 for the person immediately after administration. Naloxone is available at most pharmacies. To learn more about naloxone and receive naloxone at no cost, please visit stopodne.com.
There is also a virtual online candlelight event going on now through end of September as part of National Recovery Month. Personal messages can be submitted to support yourself, a friend or a loved one. Click here for the link.
Call 911 immediately if a person exhibits any of the following symptoms:
- Their face is extremely pale and/or feels clammy to the touch
- Their body goes limp
- Their fingernails or lips have a purple or blue color
- They start vomiting or making gurgling noises
- They cannot be awakened or are unable to speak
- Their breathing or heartbeat slows or stops
Help is available. If you or a loved one need assistance, please reach out to:
- Your faith-based leader, your healthcare professional, or student health center.
- Nebraska Family Helpline – Any question, any time. (888) 866-8660
- Rural Response Hotline, (800) 464-0258
- Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 (oprime dos para Español) or text TalkWithUs to 66746.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 988 from your landline or cell phone.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text LOVEIS to 22522
- National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4AChild (1-800-422-4453) or text 1-800-422-4453
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
- Nebraska Regional Poison Center, 1-800-222-1222