VIRGINIA BEACH — Opioid drug abuse continues to be a problem here and across the United States, affecting the friends and family of users.
In an effort to help friends and family react to a possible overdose, the Virginia Beach Human Services Department’s Behavioral Health and Wellness Prevention Services staff will on June 14 be offering a free opioid overdose and naloxone education program.
Staff member Venessa Harvey said she took the training a year ago and that she was taken aback by what she learned.
“I found it very informative. I’ve had friends and family members who suffer from drug addiction. I was not knowledgeable of what I could do,” she said.
The program, Revive! Opioid Overdoes and Naloxone Education for Virginia, is perfect for friends and family of drug users, those who work in a setting where overdoses might occur, and anyone interested in saving lives, Harvey said.
Naloxone, or Narcan, is a non-addictive medication that if administered correctly and in time can reverse an opioid drug overdose.
The program will delve deeper into how overdoses happen, how naloxone works, how to recognize an overdose, risk factors associated with an overdose, and myths about opioid drug overdose reversals.
“The facilitators are fully trained and knowledgeable and can answer any questions you might have,” Harvey said.
Those in attendance will also receive a free kit and some supplies, as well as information on receiving more.
The training will be at the Behavioral Health and Wellness Prevention Services office, 358 N. Witchduck Road, Suite 2-B from 2-4 p.m.
For information or to register for the training, contact Harvey at 757-385-0803.
