Safe disposal of unneeded medications can help prevent prescription drug misuse, addiction, and ultimately overdose. During the October 2023 Take Back Day, with the help of the DEA Take Back Day events, Americans safely disposed of more than 599,897 pounds of unneeded medications. Let’s try to beat those numbers!
Opioids are a medication that blocks pain; however, they do not aid in healing. Extremely powerful and highly addictive, opioids are overprescribed and responsible for 75% of US overdose deaths. Dependency can form within 3-5 days of use, even when legally prescribed. Adults ages 55 and older are at increased risk for developing medication dependency from post-surgical care and chronic pain management prescriptions. It is essential to be aware of the dangers of opioid medication use and talk with your doctor about alternative treatment plans.
Back pain is one of the most common medical problems in adults as they age. It is also one of the most difficult to treat. Watch the video to learn more.
The CDC reports that 1 in 5 adults in the US suffer from arthritis pain. The discomfort, pain and fear that can be associated with arthritis can be debilitating to many people especially older adults.
For youth and families to thrive in a safe and healthy environment, communities must address the numerous risk factors that lead to the early use of alcohol and other drugs, often the first step on a path to addiction. The Sussex County Prevention Hub is an initiative of the Coalition for Healthy and Safe Communities, a program of the Center for Prevention and Counseling. Our goals are to support the members of our community by providing a direct link to evidence-based support services, educational programs, and resources for all sectors.
The DEA’s national medication take-back day is over, but their dropboxes have not disappeared! Permanent dropboxes can be found at local police stations throughout Sussex County and are accessible 24/7. Properly disposing of your unneeded and expired medications can protect you, your family, and the environment. Expired medicines can lose their efficacy or turn toxic and cause harm if taken by accident.
Receiving medications through the mail is convenient and can be invaluable to those with low to no mobility or transportation.
This 60-minute live virtual experience is intended for parents and other adults who care for youth, including school professionals, coaches, nurses, physicians and scout leaders. This virtual exhibit provides participants an opportunity to explore a mock teen’s bedroom to explain various trends of teen substance use, signs, symptoms and lingo in an effort to raise awareness about substance use disorders. The event also provides resources and tools for parents and community members to identify further prevention tips, treatment options and recovery services in Sussex County.
These presentations discuss the signs and symptoms of drug abuse in our county, including the habits, language and current trends. There is also a separate program for addressing synthetic and emerging drug trends. Knowledge is a key ingredient in preventing substance abuse. Get involved reducing youth use of alcohol and other drugs in Sussex County.
