Black Balloon Day 2022
Black Balloon Day 2022
Black Balloon Day is intended to raise public awareness of the opioid epidemic. This is a day to remember those we have lost to the battle against a substance abuse disorder. Let others know how we miss them after they have gone, reflect and give hope to those still here and struggling.
If you are struggling with a substance abuse disorder, there is hope - please remember that you are important to someone and you matter. If you have lost a loved one to a drug overdose, we know they were more than their disease, their lives were meaningful, and you love them. We are sorry for your loss.
Overdoses in America have gone beyond epidemic proportions. The tainted drug supply of synthetic opioids is the primary driver of increasing overdose deaths. Drug overdoses take over 250 lives a day, and since 1999, we have lost more than one million loved ones. Drug overdose deaths have increased by 137% nationwide, and the number of deaths associated with opioids has increased by 200% since 2000.
We can help save lives by raising awareness of the dangers of illegally manufactured fentanyl, mixing and using drugs alone, by reducing the stigma of substance abuse, increasing medication assisted therapy, recovery options, along with understanding the life-saving potential of carrying naloxone. https://www.cdc.gov/stopoverdose/index.htm
Substance abuse disorder is a chronic, recurring brain disease, and overdose prevention is crucial. Harm reduction services, which include Naloxone, fentanyl test strips, and syringe service programs, are a federal drug policy priority for the first time.
The overdose reversal drug Naloxone is a critical tool for saving lives. Is Naloxone in your first aid kit?
What is Naloxone?
Naloxone (pronounced na-LOX-own) is a fast-acting drug that temporarily reverses the effects of opioid overdoses. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that can restore breathing within 2 to 5 minutes. When you take an opioid, it attaches to and affects certain receptors in the brain. Naloxone blocks opioids from binding to opioid receptors in your brain. This reverses the effects of opioids on your body and restores breathing. Naloxone works for about 20-90 minutes.
Where can I get Naloxone??
Naloxone is available in all Pennsylvania pharmacies through a standing order signed by Dr. Johnson and is covered by most insurances.
If you feel uncomfortable walking to the pharmacy counter and requesting Naloxone, contact Prevention Point Pittsburgh. This community-based service provider ensures equitable access to Naloxone by eliminating barriers to access throughout Pennsylvania. They will help coordinate delivery to your door, and no insurance is required. Prevention Point Pittsburgh is a safe space. https://nextdistro.org/pennsylvania
If you are reading from our Philadelphia family, check out - https://nextdistro.org/philly
In honor of all the lives lost to accidental overdose, we remember, we hope.
Stay Safe, we care. One Love.
Resources:
Overdose Signs and Symptoms
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSuZZ9iIfXg
What to do if you think someone is overdosing?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Duj0eM1v0SM
How to administer rescue breathing?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGFieA8QC9A
How to administer Naloxone Nasal Spray-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v26cDao4AcI&feature=youtu.be
Why Breaths Matter in an Opioid Overdose-This short video explains how important it is to keep giving breaths to prevent brain damage in a person who is experiencing an overdose. https://vimeo.com/331469809
If you are using alone, call one of these numbers. Someone will stay online with you to make sure you don't go into an overdose, and if you do, they'll make sure help gets to you.
English language line is 1(800) 484-3731.
Spanish language line is 1(800)-928-5330.
Words Matter – Stigma hurts –
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWaOsPiv-gw
Additional Resources:
SAMHSA’s National Helpline – 1-800-662-4357.
Partnership for Drug-Free Kids – 1-855-DRUGFREE.
Boys Town National Hotline – 1-800-448-3000.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-8255.
National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence – 1-800-622-2255.
American Addiction Centers – 1-888-252-2347.
If you need assistance finding a treatment provider or funding for addiction treatment, call: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Increases in Drug and Opioid Overdose Deaths — United States, 2000–2014. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2016; 64(50);1378-82.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only. It would be best not to rely on this information to substitute for or replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Suppose you have any concerns or questions about your health. In that case, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional. The F.D.A. has not evaluated this information, nor is it intended to diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease or disorder of any kind.