Overdose Awareness: What You Need to Know
August is Overdose Awareness Month, culminating in International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31st. This global campaign is the world's largest effort to combat overdose, remember the individuals who have passed away without stigmatization, and recognize the anguish of the bereaved families and friends.
Understanding Overdose
When we talk about an overdose, we're referring to the consumption of a toxic level of substance(s) that impedes the normal functioning of the brain and body. A common misconception is that all overdoses result in death. This is not the case. However, the impact of overdose in the US alone is staggering. In 2022, over 100,000 drug overdose deaths were reported, making it one of the leading causes of injury-related deaths in the country. The majority of these deaths involve opioids.
Different substances can result in varying overdose symptoms, from cardiac events to respiratory depression. Renowned celebrities like Mac Miller, Heath Ledger, Prince, Philip Seymour Hoffman, and Michael Jackson tragically lost their lives to overdoses.
Signs and Symptoms of Opioid Overdose
Recognizing the symptoms can be the difference between life and death:
- Slowed or halted breathing
- Pinpoint pupils
- Blue-tinged lips or fingertips
- Slowed or halted heart rate
- Unconsciousness
- Cold, clammy skin
- Rattling or gurgling sounds while breathing
- Vomiting, especially if the person is unresponsive
What To Do During an Overdose
Immediate action is crucial:
- Call 911 without delay.
- If Narcan is accessible and appropriate, administer it. (Note: Narcan is only effective for opioid overdoses).
- Ensure the person is breathing. Give mouth to mouth if needed.
- Lay the individual down. If they vomit, roll them to their side.
- Stay with them until help arrives.
Join Dan & Jess in their latest episode of "The Addiction Help Podcast" as they dive deeper into this topic, providing insights, personal stories, and expert advice on the subject.
Popular Podcasts
Fudd Around And Find Out
UConn basketball star Azzi Fudd brings her championship swag to iHeart Women’s Sports with Fudd Around and Find Out, a weekly podcast that takes fans along for the ride as Azzi spends her final year of college trying to reclaim the National Championship and prepare to be a first round WNBA draft pick. Ever wonder what it’s like to be a world-class athlete in the public spotlight while still managing schoolwork, friendships and family time? It’s time to Fudd Around and Find Out!
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
The Breakfast Club
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!