International Overdose Awareness Day is recognized annually on August 31st to raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with drug-related deaths. The day also remembers and honors those who lost their fight to overdose. At Oaks, our mission remains consistent – helping to save lives.
According to the CDC, over 90,000 drug overdose deaths occurred in the United States in 2020 alone, with opioids remaining as the leading cause. However, drug overdoses can be prevented. The CDC states, “More than 3 out of 5 overdose deaths had at least one potential opportunity to link people to care before the fatal overdose or to implement life-saving actions when the fatal overdose occurred.” Recovery is always possible with the proper treatment, resources, and information.
Oaks Integrated Care remains dedicated to providing a variety of services related to substance abuse and co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse disorder). Our addiction services include but are not limited to:
- Straight… to Treatment offers in-person meetings with an Oaks team member or coordinating provider through the Evesham Police Dept. to coordinate treatment options and community resources.
- Opioid Overdose Recovery Program (OORP) provides face-to-face bedside interventions to individuals at four Emergency Departments in Burlington County.
- Support Team for Addiction Recovery (STAR) offers care management and peer support in the communities they serve to help reduce the risk of recurring episodes through assistance with issues that often occur concurrently with an Opioid Use Disorder, such as homelessness, incarceration, employment and education.
- Outpatient Services in Burlington and Mercer Counties help individuals and families struggling with addiction or co-occurring disorders improve well-being at home, work and in the community.
- Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) services in Mercer and Burlington Counties treat individuals in recovery from opiate and alcohol use disorders with medications such as Suboxone, Vivitrol, and others.
Not only are our services important and essential, Oaks strives to make an impact in the communities it serves. On Overdose Awareness Day, our team members wore purple to honor those who lost their battle to overdose and remind all individuals that every life is valuable. Oaks also participated in community events such as the 7th Annual Mercer County Overdose Awareness Day presented by One Voice Initiative.
Addiction is a disease, and Oaks continues to spread information and resources to prevent overdoses. To learn more about addiction services or schedule an appointment, call our Access Center at 1-800-963-3377 or fill out a contact form.
