The opioid crisis has had a major effect on communities and individuals across the country and around the world, but let’s examine the impacts of the opioid crisis on first responders and workers on the front lines. This public health crisis is characterized by the over-prescription of opioid drugs and an increase in opioid abuse, dependence, and overdose. Opioid overdoses can lead to serious health consequences, including respiratory depression, coma, and death. The increasing number of opioid overdoses has put a strain on healthcare systems and has led to a significant increase in the number of deaths from drug overdoses in recent years. With deadly drugs like Fentanyl circulating, even front line workers are in danger. Multiple police officers for instance, have been exposed to Fentanyl during routine calls and have almost overdosed themselves due to exposure. As the crisis continues to escalate, workers in various industries are stepping up to fight the overdose crisis and support those who have been affected by addiction. Workers that are playing a major role in facing this crisis include:
- Healthcare providers: The Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals are facing the opioid epidemic day in and day out. They are working to provide treatment and support to individuals who have been affected by addiction and administering life saving treatments to those who overdose in hopes to reverse the opioids effects.
- Police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel are all first responders that are typically first to respond to a reported overdose. The care they provide is critical, as immediate care and support is needed to avoid death.
- Substance abuse counselors: For those that do make it out of a near death situation caused by opioid overdose, substance abuse counselors provide critical support and guidance about the process of recovering from addiction.
- Researchers: Treatments like Narcan have helped save lives across the country and researchers are working hard to develop new interventions and treatments to prevent overdose and help those struggling overcome addiction.
By showing up each day and working together, these workers are crucial to helping fight against the opioid overdose crisis. They risk their own lives at times in an attempt to save others and they are true heroes! If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse issues, please connect with our team at Scottsdale Recovery and Detox Center. Learn more by visiting scottsdalerecovery.com or call 1-888-NODRUGS.
