We Can All Play a Role in Preventing Substance Abuse

The alarming rise in New Hampshire’s rates of heroin and opioid abuse and overdose deaths is a serious public health epidemic. In 2015, 420 Granite Staters lost their lives to a drug overdose. Manchester recently saw a record high month in the number of suspected heroin and opioid-related deaths, and drug-related emergency room visits have spiked by 76%.

Heroin doesn’t discriminate, and families and communities across New Hampshire have felt the devastating effects of substance abuse. Tackling this epidemic is going to take all of us coming together to support recovery and healing.

Individuals who want to make a difference and help combat substance abuse among loved ones and members of their community can:

• Share your story.
• Be a sober friend.
• Volunteer as a mentor.
• Coach a youth sports team.
• Lead an after school activity or local small group.
• Safely dispose of old or unused prescriptions.
• Talk to your kids and grandkids about the dangers of drug use.
• Volunteer at a treatment center or help line.

Businesses and community groups that want to help combat the heroin and opioid epidemic can:

• Sponsor a sports team.
• Support after school programs.
• Host an event to support local treatment facilities.
• Host a substance abuse support group.
• Sponsor a public awareness campaign.
• Consider ways to partner with local government and non-profits to make sober living facilities financially feasible for your community.

If you or someone you know is struggling with heroin or prescription opioids:

CLICK HERE →

Or CALL 1–800–662-HELP (4357) or 1–800–487–4889 (TDD)

Kelly Ayotte is a wife, mother, former New Hampshire Attorney General, and current U.S. Senator. To learn more, click here.