New York continues to battle the state’s addiction to opioids as a recent health department study reported, “an uptick in deaths of younger groups in more affluent parts of the city from 2010-2013,” according to an article in the Epoch Times.
Mayor Bill de Blasio proclaimed September 9th as New York City Overdose Awareness Day. In recognition of this date, New York’s health department gave out 200 treatment packages of Naloxone, a drug commonly used to reverse an overdose in a patient.
A study done by New York City officials found that from 2010 to present, more than 25 thousand Naloxone packages were given out all over the city. These treatment packages helped to reduce 500 overdoses.
Dr. Mary Bassett, New York Health Commissioner, said in a press release that “Naloxone is a life saving tool. I want to remind New Yorkers that fatal opioid analgesic and heroin overdoses can be prevented.”
If you suspect that someone you love might be overdosing on opioids you can look for the following symptoms:
- Consciousness with the inability to speak
- Limp body and extremities
- Pale in color or ‘clammy’
- Mouth and fingers will be blue
- People who are light skinned will turn blue, those who are darker in skin tone will turn gray
- Shallow breath
- Slow or erratic heartbeat
- “Death Rattle” or choking sounds
- Vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
- Unresponsiveness
Please call 911 immediately if you recognize the aforementioned symptoms of overdose.
New Directions for Women is a treatment facility located in California that offers help to women of all ages, pregnant women in any trimester, and women with children. Founded in 1977, our courageous and visionary founders asked for the help of Newport Beach Junior League members to fulfill their vision of a tranquil home-like facility that would treat women with dignity and respect. Our caring admissions counselors are available 24/7 to take your call and answer any questions you may have on getting help. Reach us by phone at 800-93-WOMEN. We can help. Stay in the loop with New Directions for Women by connecting with us on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn.
