FREE OPIOID SUPPORT MEETINGSJoin COSA-NCADD every Wednesday in a no-judgment

zone where those who suffer from the negative effects of

opioid use disorder can get help and find freedom.

KNOW THE FACTSA GROWING OPIOID CRISISIn 2016, there were more than 63,600 drug overdose

deaths in the United States. The provisional numbers

estimate there were 72,287 drug overdose deaths in the

United States in 2017.

NO JUDGMENT. HELP IS HERE.If you or someone you know needs help with opioid

use disorder, please call 1-877-HELP-4AL now. The

helpline provides confidential assistance for those who

need help themselves and guidance for those seeking

help for loved ones. We are here to help you and will

never judge you or your circumstances.

SUPPORT FOR OPIOID USE DISORDERS The Council on Substance Abuse-NCADD (COSA-NCADD) offers

recovery support services to individuals with opioid use disorder

and their families. Together with peers in recovery, treatment

providers, and other community organizations, we strive to offer

hope while meeting the specialized needs of those seeking help.

Effective treatment for opioid dependence and addiction can reduce the risk of an overdose and help people recover and lead a healthier life.

The decision to take legally prescribed medications or to misuse medications or drugs is a decision a person makes on his or her own. But when someone becomes dependent on that substance, self-control plummets. Studies have shown that individuals dependent on drugs experience changes in their brains that are necessary for decision making and behavior control. So, people may know they should stop using opioids, but they can’t bear the weight of that responsibility on their own. Their brains and bodies will do whatever necessary to obtain the substances they are dependent on. COSA-NCADD is here to help.

Wednesdays 5:30-7:30 p.m.HOPE Recovery Community Center3447 McGehee Road, Suite F, Montgomery, AL 36111

NO JUDGMENT

The overdose crisis is growing—and opioid misuse, dependence, and addictions are primary factors. Opioid overdose deaths are expected to account for 68% of the total number of overdose deaths in 2017.

Over the past several years, the effects of opioid addiction and overdose deaths have profoundly impacted the lives of Alabama residents. Many individuals have suffered in silence, not knowing how or where to get help. Friends, family, and communities have all looked at ways to support individuals with opioid use disorders and prevent opioid deaths. One promising approach is for EMS/First Responders to provide information to patients and their families on how to get the help they need. COSA-NCADD is here to help and give you hope. Please call us at 1-877-HELP-4AL for recovery support resources and guidance.

O P I O I D D E P E N D E N C E I S T R E ATA B L E

TAKE MEDICATIONS AS PRESCRIBED BY YOUR PHYSICIAN & NOTIFY YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT ANY OTHER MEDICATIONS YOU ARE TAKING.

DO NOT TAKE MORE MEDICATIONS THAN PRESCRIBED AND DO NOT TAKE THEM MORE OFTEN THAN PRESCRIBED.

CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF PAIN WORSENS.

NEVER MIX MEDICATIONS WITH ALCOHOL, SLEEPING PILLS, OR OTHER SUBSTANCES.

LEARN THE SIGNS OF AN OPIOID OVERDOSE AT HELP4AL.COM.

DISPOSE OF UNUSED MEDICATIONS PROPERLY.

NEVER SHARE OR SELL YOUR PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS.