Overdose Statistics in Portage County

• In 2021, there were 48 drug overdose deaths in Portage County.
• Opioids were the leading cause of overdose deaths, accounting for 71% of all deaths.
• Fentanyl was the most common opioid involved in overdose deaths, accounting for 52% of all deaths.
• The age group with the highest number of overdose deaths was 25-44 years old.
• Men accounted for 66% of overdose deaths, while women accounted for 34%.

The Portage County Health District is working to address the opioid crisis in the county. The department has a number of programs and initiatives in place, including:

• A naloxone distribution program that provides naloxone kits to people who may be at risk of an overdose. Naloxone is a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
• A substance abuse treatment directory that lists treatment providers in Portage County.
• A 24/7 crisis hotline that can provide support to people who are struggling with drug addiction.

The Portage County Health District is also working to raise awareness about the dangers of drug addiction and to promote prevention efforts.

If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, please reach out for help. There are resources available to you.

Here are some additional resources that may be helpful:

• National Institute on Drug Abuse
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
• National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

How is the Opioid Crisis Being Combated in Ohio?

Ohio, like many other states in the United States, has been actively combating the opioid crisis, which has had a significant impact on the state. Various strategies and initiatives have been implemented to address this public health crisis. Please note that the situation may have evolved since then, and it’s advisable to check the latest information for the most current efforts and developments. Here are some of the key ways in which Ohio was combating the opioid crisis:

Expansion of Treatment Services: Ohio has expanded access to addiction treatment services, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with drugs like methadone, buprenorphine, and naloxone. This includes increasing the number of treatment facilities and providers offering these services.

Naloxone Distribution: Naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication, has been made widely available to first responders, law enforcement, healthcare providers, and the public to help save lives in the event of an overdose.

Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP): Ohio’s PDMP is a statewide database that tracks the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances. It helps healthcare providers identify and prevent overprescribing and doctor shopping.

Harm Reduction Programs: Harm reduction initiatives, such as syringe exchange programs and safe injection sites, have been established in some areas to reduce the spread of infectious diseases and provide resources and support to individuals struggling with addiction.

Education and Prevention: Public education campaigns have been launched to raise awareness about the dangers of opioids and to reduce the stigma associated with addiction. These campaigns also provide information about safe prescribing practices for healthcare providers.

Law Enforcement and Legal Actions: Law enforcement agencies have been working to combat illegal opioid trafficking and prescription drug fraud. Legal actions have been taken against pharmaceutical companies for their role in the opioid epidemic.

Community-Based Efforts: Many local communities and organizations in Ohio have taken a grassroots approach to address the opioid crisis. This includes community coalitions, support groups, and outreach programs.

Mental Health Integration: Efforts have been made to integrate mental health and addiction treatment services, recognizing the high prevalence of co-occurring mental health disorders among individuals with substance use disorders.

Data Collection and Analysis: Collecting and analyzing data related to opioid use and overdoses is crucial for informing policy decisions and targeting resources effectively.

Legislation and Policy Changes: Ohio has implemented various legislative changes aimed at reducing opioid prescribing, improving access to treatment centers and detoxes, and enhancing overdose prevention measures.

It’s important to note that addressing the opioid crisis is an ongoing and multifaceted effort that requires collaboration among healthcare providers, law enforcement, government agencies, community organizations, and individuals. The situation may have evolved since my last update, so I recommend checking with Ohio’s state government and relevant agencies for the most up-to-date information on their efforts to combat the opioid crisis.

What Do Withdrawals Symptoms Look Like?

Withdrawal symptoms can vary widely depending on the substance being withdrawn from, the level of dependence, and individual factors. Withdrawal occurs when a person who is physically dependent on a substance abruptly reduces or stops using that substance. It is the body’s way of reacting to the absence of the substance it has become accustomed to. Here are some common withdrawal symptoms associated with various substances:

Opioids (e.g., heroin, prescription painkillers):

• Flu-like symptoms (runny nose, sneezing)
• Muscle aches and pain
• Restlessness and agitation
• Anxiety and irritability
• Insomnia
• Excessive yawning
• Dilated pupils
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Sweating and chills
• Cravings for the drug

Alcohol:

• Anxiety and nervousness
• Shaky hands or tremors
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sweating
• Racing heart or palpitations
• Hallucinations (in severe cases, such as delirium tremens)
• Seizures (in severe cases)
• Insomnia
• Confusion and disorientation

Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Valium):

• Anxiety and panic attacks
• Insomnia
• Restlessness and irritability
• Muscle tension and pain
• Sweating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headaches
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Cravings for the drug
• Seizures (in severe cases)

Stimulants (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine):

• Extreme fatigue and depression (crash)
• Increased appetite and weight gain
• Irritability and mood swings
• Insomnia
• Vivid, unpleasant dreams
• Restlessness and agitation
• Cravings for the drug
• Slowed thinking and cognitive difficulties

It’s important to note that the severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms can vary widely. Some individuals may experience mild symptoms that resolve relatively quickly, while others may have more severe and prolonged symptoms, particularly if they have a long history of substance use or dependence. Anyone struggling should seek professional help from a detox center in Ohio.

Withdrawal can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, dangerous, which is why it’s essential to seek medical guidance and support during the withdrawal process. Medical professionals can provide medications and interventions to help manage symptoms, ensure safety, and increase the chances of a successful withdrawal and recovery. For many individuals, withdrawal is a necessary step on the path to overcoming substance dependence and addiction.

Cities and Towns in Portage County

1. Aurora
2. Kent
3. Ravenna (county seat)
4. Streetsboro
5. Tallmadge (partly in Summit County)
6. 6. Brady Lake
7. Garrettsville
8. Hiram
9. Mantua
10. Mogadore
11. Atwater Township
12. Brimfield Township
13. Charlestown Township
14. Deerfield Township
15. Edinburg Township
16. Franklin Township
17. Freedom Township
18. Hiram Township
19. Mantua Township
20. Nelson Township
21. Palmyra Township
22. Paris Township
23. Randolph Township
24. Rootstown Township
25. Shalersville Township
26. Suffield Township
27. Windham Township

Whether you are located in Portage County, or in a different area of the state, we help people from all over Ohio find the best rehabs and top rated detox programs.

Find a Detox Center in Your Area

If you or someone you care about are struggling, please do not hesitate to give us a call. A specialist is standing by ready to help you through this difficult time however they can. The call, assessment, and placement into a detox center in Ohio is free of charge. Call now to start your journey on the road to recovery.

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