IPSWICH – Public Health Director Colleen Fermon and the Ipswich Public Health Department would like to recognize International Overdose Awareness Day by sharing information on resources available to the residents of Ipswich.
International Overdose Awareness Day, observed on Aug. 31, is a day to honor and remember those who have lost their lives to fatal drug or alcohol overdose, take action to support the community and recovery for everyone affected by substance misuse and overdose, and spread awareness of overdose prevention strategies.
In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day, the Ipswich Public Health Department would like to remind residents of resources available to support those affected by substance misuse.
The Town’s syringe services program, provided by North Shore Health Project through their OneStop Harm Reduction Program, offers users of the program means to obtain free sterile needles and syringes, dispose of used needles, syringes and sharps, get free testing strips to test substances for fentanyl and xylazine, receive overdose prevention education, and get access to Narcan (naloxone).
One Stop representatives offer free, confidential harm reduction services each Tuesday at the Ipswich Housing Authority parking lot near The Open Door pantry, the Ipswich MBTA commuter rail lot on Peatfield Street, and the Hammatt Street municipal parking lot. Times and locations vary each week; those interested in using the service may call or text One Stop’s confidential line at 978-515-0455. Anyone homebound or with a transportation issue may contact One Stop for at-home service.
Narcan (naloxone) is a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids – including heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioid medications – when given in time. According to the CDC, someone else was present in nearly 40% of overdose deaths. Having Narcan available allows bystanders to help during a fatal overdose and save lives. Often given as a nasal spray, Narcan is safe and easy to use. Ipswich residents can obtain Narcan and receive training through the OneStop program.
Additionally, the Massachusetts Behavorial Health Help Line is a free, confidential resource available for all Massachusetts residents, 24/7, 365 days a year. Users can call or text 833-773-2445, or chat online at masshelpline.com/chat, to receive individualized support, clinical assessment, personalized treatment referrals, and more.
“It is important for our residents to know what resources are available to them if they should ever need help for themselves or a loved one,” said Director Fermon. “On International Overdose Awareness Day, we wish to honor those we have lost and emphasize that members of our community are not alone.”
If you believe someone is experiencing an overdose, call 911.
