Approximately 91 Americans die each day due to the rise of the opioid crisis throughout the country. If you are looking for a way to lend a hand, financial backing, or assistance in any way in the fight against the opioid crisis, there are a few steps and tips to keep in mind when getting started.
Become Educated on the Opioid Crisis
Understanding the devastation that the opioid crisis in America alone has caused is the first place to begin when you have an interest in fighting the epidemic. Learn more about the physical, emotional, and behavioral signs and symptoms that are most closely associated with an addiction or reliance on opioids. Speak to individuals who have struggled with an opioid addiction in the past to learn more about their personal experiences with prescription medications while also speaking to individuals who are still struggling to overcome their addiction.
Create a Community Group
Create a community group by working together with your city’s representatives. Launch online groups using social media platforms such as Facebook to reach out to and connect with others who are also interested in getting involved in the fight against opioid abuse. Use online groups to schedule and manage donation drives and other events that are relevant to helping those who are overcoming addictions to opioids or for those who are still in need of assistance with getting clean and away from drugs and substances altogether.
Launch a Proposal for Safe Dropboxes
If your city or community does not currently have a location to drop off medications, prescriptions, and other medically-related items, consider opting for a petition to have one installed. A safe drop box for unused or outdated medication helps to keep prescription medications such as opioids off of the street and in the hands of individuals who do not currently have an active prescription in use. Consider working together with any group in your community you have already gathered support from before moving forward with a petition or raising funds to help with installing the safety dropbox for medication.
The more familiar you are with opioids and how they have negatively impacted the lives of millions and their families, the easier it is to determine which path is right for you when making a difference in the fight against opioid use and abuse.