Season 4 Episode 9
Fighting the Opioid Epidemic
Opioid abuse and addiction have been major problems in Utah for many years. Drug overdoses are the leading cause of injury death in Utah, outpacing deaths due to firearms, falls, and motor vehicle crashes. We discuss the dangers associated with opioids, and what is being done to reduce their use in Utah. Learn about the steps being taken that could bring positive change in Utah.
Episode Clip
VA Pain Management Program
When a Utah veteran unexpectedly found himself in the throes of addiction, he didn't know where to turn for help. Faced with the risk of permanantly losing his family and his life, he eventually found success through a pain management program at the Salt Lake City VA Medical Center. We hear his story of hope, and how this program is changing lives for other families as well.
Resources
211 Utah - United Ways in Utah
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Stop Drug Overdose Deaths
Four Corners Behavioral Health
Huntsman Mental Health Institute - University of Utah - Addiction Recovery Services
Project Reality - Substance Use Services
Salt Lake County Behavioral Health - Substance Use Disorder Treatment Services
United States Drug Enforcement Administration - Fentanyl Awareness
Utah Department of Health & Human Services - Substance Use and Mental Health
Utah Department of Health & Human Services - Violence and Injury Prevention Program
Utah State Legislature - S.B. 86 Drug Testing and Paraphernalia Amendments
Utah State University HEART Initiative
Utah Poison Control Center - 2022 Annual Report
VA Salt Lake City Health Care - U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
