Linden’s National Drug Take Back Date Set For April 28

Did you know that everyday more than 115 people in the United States die after overdosing on opioids? Were you aware that the misuse and abuse of prescription pain relievers, heroin, and even fentanyl is a national crisis affecting every race and socioeconomic status? This is a serious matter. So what can you do to make a difference?

Tip 1. Be Knowledgeable

It is important to eliminate the stigma associated with substance abuse. Half of the battle is understanding what you are dealing with. When prescribed medication, always be sure that you are taking the proper medication. In addition, use the medication only as prescribed from your doctor.

Tip 2. Be Responsible

DO NOT USE other people’s medications. Even though individuals may experience similar symptoms, there is a possibility that you could react differently to someone else’s drugs.

Tip 3. Be Resourceful

Consumers and caregivers should remove expired, unwanted, or unused medicines from their home as quickly as possible to help reduce the chance that others may accidentally take or intentionally misuse the unneeded medicine. Know where your authorized collectors are located. If there are no authorized collectors around, here are some things you can do:

1. Mix medicines (do not crush tablets or capsules) with an unpalatable substance such as dirt, kitty litter, or used coffee grounds;

2. Place the mixture in a container such as a sealed plastic bag;

3. Throw the container in your household trash;

4. Scratch out all personal information on the prescription label of your empty pill bottle or empty medicine packaging to make it unreadable, then dispose of the container.

On April 28, 2018, West Alabama Mental Health Center will partner with the City of Linden, Marengo County Sheriff’s Department, Linden Police Department, Linden Fire Department, and the Drug Task Force to present the DEA National Drug Take Back Event. Here you will have the opportunity to return your unused prescription drugs and receive some information about opioids and how you can make a difference within your own community. We invite you to come support West Alabama Mental Health Center as we strive to increase access to care and raise awareness about substance abuse and mental illness one heart at a time.

Will you be the change your community needs?