Addiction Prevention measures you can adopt

Place all medications under lock and key, remove prescription opioids and all unwanted medicines from your home as soon as possible and drop them off at a local police drop box.

Expand knowledge within the family—parents, grandparents, children, aunts/uncles, etc.

Understand the dangers and risks of drug abuse. Hopefully, the fear of the danger/risk will decrease the urge to try something that could cause death.

Trust your instinct. If you think something’s not what it should be, you’re probably correct. Never ignore the signs or go into denial if you think there is a problem—reach out for help.

Know that you are NEVER ALONE—there are resources for those in the grips of addiction and also for family or friends dealing with addiction. Never let shame and guilt control you.

Take Narcan training; Maryland’s Good Samaritan Law protects those who assist with an emergency alcohol- or drug-related overdose.

Awareness and education play a crucial role in combating substance use.