HUNTSVILLE, Ala — We’re over seven months into the pandemic, and this time has been a very difficult time for us all; especially for those who struggle with substance abuse.
Before the coronavirus arrived, the U.S. was already in the middle of it's deadliest drug overdose epidemic in its history, with a record 71,000 overdose deaths last year. This year, those numbers are expected to rise even higher.
With the isolation and worry that comes with the pandemic, temptation to use drugs or other substances can be overwhelming.
In North Alabama, we’ve already seen a surge in deaths in around April to June. We met with Wendy Reeves of Partnership for a Drug Free Community in Huntsville. She tells our reporter, “Overdose deaths skyrocketed. Typically we run an overdose death every four and a half to five and a half days. We were every day and a half, according to Tyler Berryhill, our county coroner.”
Partnership for a Drug Free Community has taken support meetings and other resources virtual in order to help.
Partnership for A Drug Free Community is holding virtual group sessions online via Zoom for those who need support. You can find the link here. You can also connect with them via their Facebook page for more resources.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, help is available.
Crisis Services North Alabama 256-716-1000 or 1-800-691-8426
Alabama Help for Opioid Addiction 24/7 Helpline 844-307-1760 courageforall.com