Download high resolution image [JPEG 296KB]
Darling Downs Health is hoping to raise awareness about accidental overdose to reduce the number of residents impacted.
Using International Overdose Awareness Day (31 August), Alcohol and Other Drug Unit Health Promotion Officer Kerry McNally said she hoped to reduce the stigma associated with accidental overdose.
“We want to let people know there are supports and services available if they or someone they love is experiencing substance dependence,” Ms McNally said.
“We want to reduce the stigma associated in seeking help. Taking those first steps can save your life, or the life of someone you love.”
Alcohol and Other Drug Unit Health Promotion Officer Kerry McNally
Ms McNally said alongside services to reduce dependency, there are practical steps people can take to avoid an accidental overdose.
“We recommend that if you have a dependency on opioids, which includes drugs such as heroin and legally available pain medication, or if you know someone who has a dependency, to have ready access to an opioid overdose-reversing medication such as Nyxoid,” she said.
“Nyxoid only works to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and is available with or without a prescription at pharmacies.
“This medication does not replace the need to seek urgent medical care if an overdose does occur, but it could save a person’s life.”
According to Australia’s Annual Overdose Report, more than half of the drug induced deaths in Australia were unintentional, and most were caused by opioids.
“Any death attributed to drugs or alcohol is a tragedy, but the statistics are telling us there are a lot of people taking substances in dangerous combinations or doses, who are not meaning to harm themselves,” Ms McNally said.
For more information or to seek support you can contact Darling Downs Health Alcohol and Other Drugs Units on the follow numbers:
- Toowoomba 4616 6100
- Goondiwindi 4616 6100
- Warwick 4616 6100
- Chinchilla 4662 8888
- Dalby 4669 0501
- Cherbourg 4169 8929
- Kingaroy 4162 0487
Other service providers include:
- Lives Lived Well 1300 727 957
- Drug Arm 3620 8880
- Family Drug Support 1300 368 186