Every overdose is more than a statistic. It’s a life, a family, and a community forever changed. As overdose rates continue to rise across the U.S., Manning Regional Healthcare Center’s Recovery Center is marking Overdose Awareness Day with an urgent reminder: education, prevention, and timely intervention save lives. By equipping community members with tools like Narcan training, proper medication disposal, and local recovery resources, the Recovery Center is working to reduce stigma, empower individuals, and create a safer, healthier future for all.
Overdoses can happen to anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstance, which is why awareness and preparedness are critical. Recognizing the symptoms of an overdose can make the difference between life and death. Common signs may include:
• Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
• Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness
• Pinpoint pupils
• Pale, blue, or cold skin
• Slow heartbeat or low blood pressure
If you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose, call 911 immediately. While waiting for emergency responders, administer Narcan (naloxone) if it is available. Narcan is a safe and effective medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
The Recovery Center at MRHC offers free Narcan training and kits to community members. Staff members are available to travel locally and provide training to equip individuals with the knowledge and confidence to act quickly during an overdose emergency.
“Narcan education empowers communities by reducing stigma, increasing awareness of overdose symptoms, and promoting timely intervention,” says Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC. “It supports a harm reduction approach that prioritizes the preservation of life and opens the door for individuals to seek long-term treatment and recovery. Training in Narcan use should be widely accessible, culturally competent, and integrated into broader efforts to combat substance use disorder.”
Preventing overdoses also includes limiting access to unnecessary or expired medications. Community members can properly dispose of medications at local drop boxes at the MRHC Emergency Room entrance and the Manning Pharmacy. Proper disposal keeps medications out of the wrong hands and helps reduce risks of misuse.
On Overdose Awareness Day and every day, the Recovery Center is here to support individuals and families impacted by addiction. A variety of service levels are available depending on individual situations, including residential or outpatient treatment, detoxification, and evaluations. If you or a loved one is struggling, please call the Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300 to learn more.