|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
By Jenny Lu
According to a July 2023 report by nonprofit news organization CalMatters and based on data from the California Health Department, opioid-related deaths increased 121% between 2019 and 2021.
“The vast majority of these deaths were linked to fentanyl, an extremely potent synthetic opioid,” the CalMatters report stated.
Because of the significant increase in deaths related to opioid-related abuse, it has become increasingly vital to be aware of resources that can for those struggling with addiction and their loved ones.
Treatment and recovery services
These services focus on helping those struggling with opioid addiction by assisting with recovering and withdrawing from substances.
- Alameda County Substance Use Access & Referral Helpline: Call 1-844-682-7215 (M–F, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.) for screenings, assessments, and referrals to treatment programs, including residential and outpatient services.
- Cherry Hill Sobering and Detox Services: Provides 24/7 withdrawal support and detox services. Call 1-866-866-7496 for assistance.
- Alameda Family Services: Offers assessment, intervention, and counseling for substance abuse and addiction. Call (510) 522-8363 for more information.
- Chrysalis (Horizon Services, Inc.): A treatment and recovery facility for women 18 years and older. Call (510) 450-1192 for admissions.
- CURA (Carnales Unidos Reformando Adictos): A long-term residential therapeutic community for chemical dependency treatment. Call (510) 713-3200 for intake and assessment.
Harm reduction and support services
These services offer those who are currently using opioids harm reduction services and a safer means to use substances.
- HEPPAC (HIV Education and Prevention Project of Alameda County): Provides harm reduction services, including syringe exchange, naloxone distribution, and overdose prevention education.
- Punks With Lunch: Offers syringe exchange and naloxone distribution in Oakland.
- Berkeley NEED: Provides needle exchange and naloxone distribution in Berkeley.
Additional support lines
These hotlines provide support and information on meetings in organizations.
- Narcotics Anonymous Alameda County Helpline: Call 510-444-4673 for meeting information and support.
- East Bay Alcoholics Anonymous Hotline: Call 510-839-8900 for meeting information and support.
- National Helpline for Substance Abuse (SAMHSA): Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for confidential, 24/7 assistance.
This article was written as part of a program to educate youth and others about Alameda County’s opioid crisis, prevention and treatment options. The program is funded by the Alameda County Behavioral Health Department and the grant is administered by Three Valleys Community Foundation.
