August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day. It’s a day to remember those who have died from drug overdoses, and to acknowledge the grief of those left behind. It’s also a day to remember that overdoses are preventable, and recovery from a substance use disorder is possible.  

With American Indian and Alaska Native people experiencing the largest percent increase in the rate of drug overdose deaths from 2021 to 2022, according to the CDC – increasing 15.0% from year-to-year – we must take action to prevent these overdoses and deaths from happening in our community, and create an environment where people feel comfortable asking for help. 

Substance use disorder – commonly known as addiction – is not a choice. Addiction is a medical disorder, and we should support those who are struggling.  

Stigma, or fear of judgment, is a major barrier for someone struggling with substance use disorder – commonly referred to as addiction – to get help. Starting this month, members of the community are speaking out and sharing their stories of addiction and recovery via the Lift the Label campaign, in hopes that they can remove that stigma and point people to resources for treatment. These stories share all that these individuals overcame to find recovery, and advice for those looking for help and support in finding treatment for themselves or a loved one.  

 

If you have a loved one who is struggling from substance use disorder, you can support someone in many different ways, but here are some initial steps to take: 

 

• Educate yourself on addiction and learn the signs. 

• Carry naloxone, which reverses the effects of an overdose. Naloxone (name brands NARCAN and Kloxxado) is easy to use, and can be found over the counter at stores, without a prescription from the Southern Ute Health Center Pharmacy, from the Behavioral Health Center, and is also distributed at many community events. 

• Call the Southern Ute Behavioral Health Office at (970) 563-4581 to learn about treatment and support options.  

• If you or a loved one needs immediate help, the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line is available for free, immediate, human support 24/7. If you or someone you know is struggling with an emotional, mental health or substance use concern, call, text, or live chat with 988 today at 988colorado.com. 

• Learn how to set boundaries for yourself, and how to take care of yourself while you’re supporting someone via individual counseling sessions with the Southern Ute Behavioral Health Office.  

• Read the stories of the community at LTLSouthernUte.org to learn more about addiction and how individuals overcame barriers to find recovery.  

• Order a free Recovery Card to give to a loved one at RecoveryCardsProject.com. 

• Offer the support your friend or family member needs – talk through their options with a doctor, go with them to pick up prescriptions, give them a ride to treatment, offer to watch their pet, etc.  

 

Addiction is treatable, and recovery is always possible. Your support and compassion can make a huge difference in someone finding treatment and recovery. Learn more about how you can support someone at LTLSouthernUte.org.