OCEAN COUNTY – Members of the Ocean County Health Department have recognized August 31 as International Overdose Awareness Day, acknowledging the international event to raise awareness about substance abuse, overdose, and the stigma associated with drug-related deaths.
This year’s event is themed “Time to Remember, Time to Act.” This theme intends to encourage the idea that death by overdose is preventable as well as honor the memories of those lost to drugs.
“This day serves as a tremendous opportunity to raise awareness about overdose prevention,” said Ocean County Freeholder Director Gerry P. Little, Liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health. “Ocean County residents are urged to have a conversation about overdose prevention and discuss the many resources that exist in our local community.”
Since 2013, Ocean County is at the top of the list, comprising about 10 percent of the total admissions into New Jersey substance abuse treatment facilities, officials said. Not to mention, Ocean County has seen 114 overdose deaths.
“No community is immune to overdose,” said Daniel Regenye, Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) Public Health Coordinator. “The Ocean County Health Department is committed to raising awareness about overdose prevention, reducing stigma, providing innovative programs to assist residents and providing education on prevention, treatment and recovery.”
The OCHD provides various resources for those navigating addiction and substance abuse issues. Not only this, but the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor provides services such as the Blue HART (Heroin Addiction Recover Treatment) Program in townships including Brick, Lacey, Little Egg Harbor, Manchester, Ocean Gate, Point Pleasant Borough, Stafford and Surf City.
If you or anyone you know have questions about seeking treatment, contact the staff at the OCHD’s Alcohol and Drug Unit at 732-341-9700 ext. 7535.
For information on substance abuse prevention programming, call the Health Education division at 732-341-9700 ext. 7233.
For more information on the Blue HART Program, visit tinyurl.com/y7dco9g6.
