Counselor Education
California State University, Stanislaus
Patterson, California
Title
Saving a Life: The Impact of COVID
on the Opioid Crisis
Synopsis
The national opioid crisis continues to ravage our nation with over 221 overdose deaths per day, nearly doubling since last year, and deeply affecting our neighborhoods, schools, and communities. The COVID-19 pandemic has only served to drastically hamper the already overly burdened access to treatment in our country. Addiction is an “equal opportunity disease,” and can strike any person, from any background, culture, or environment. Few truly understand the irrepressible anguish of the addicted person’s withdrawal that compels continued use. This presentation discusses the raw realities of addiction, the profound hope found in recovery, and the humanistic advocacy role that more police are engaging in as first responders to help those afflicted.