In San Diego, 3 People Overdose and Die Each Day

The County of San Diego recently published stark numbers about addiction overdoses. Overdose deaths during the pandemic are a parallel public health crisis. Deaths have increased at least 50% since the same time last year. Three people overdose and die daily, mostly from opioids.

The indirect causes of overdose deaths vary. Some people are newly addicted, some have relapsed, and others may have increased their drug use or are struggling to maintain it. Drug supplies have been spotty on the streets of San Diego for illicit drug users, causing them to turn to other sources. Fentanyl is often found in drug supplies that are sold as heroin or Oxycontin.

Pandemic and Relapse

San Diego isn't the only place where people are struggling. The pandemic has, in part, ushered in a new addiction epidemic. Like many people, some individuals in recovery have struggled with isolation, and anecdotally there is a decent percentage of people who have relapsed since the beginning of the COVID-19 lockdowns.

Drugs are not flowing on the streets the way they used to due to border shutdowns and fewer flights. Thus, pills are often cut with fentanyl, which is very potent and can be fatal to inexperienced people using it.

Addiction, also called substance use disorder, is found among people from all backgrounds. Addiction is a disease and has its progression. The good news is that help is available.

Detox and treatment can help you overcome addiction and reclaim your life.

Preventing Overdose

If you or your loved one has relapsed, getting clean and sober may not happen overnight.

Keep a supply of Naloxone, an overdose reversal drug, with you if you or somebody you love uses opioids. In San Diego, a primary care physician or other healthcare can prescribe it for you. Check-in with your loved ones or commit to having them check in with you once or more times a day. Let them know that you'll have to call them an ambulance if they don't get in touch.

If you suspect your loved one has overdosed and you can't get in touch with them, it's okay to call 911 and let them know you suspect an overdose.

If a loved one turns blue, is unconscious, or has shallow breathing, don't hesitate to summon emergency help—call 911.

Getting Help

The best way to prevent an overdose is to get clean and sober through a reputable program. We can help you start your journey through recovery and begin to reclaim your life. Our caring intake coordinators are standing by to answer any questions you may have about detox and treatment. Call us today at (619) 363-4767.