Opioid Use Disorder, or OUD, is an addiction that can start after repeated use of opioids. Anyone can be at risk of OUD if they are using an opioid, such as heroin and painkillers that are used in hospital settings— like codeine or OxyContin.
There are many risk factors for OUD. Those with a mental health diagnosis, chronic pain, past traumatic events, and/or a family history of addiction are most at risk.
The increased use of opioids in Connecticut has turned it into a major public health concern. OUD has risen so much that residents of Connecticut are now more likely to die from accidental drug overdose than they are from a motor vehicle accident! Connecticut has developed a response and is working hard across the state to support individuals, families, and communities.
Based on 1,341 total drug overdose deaths in Connecticut in 2023.
Source
Opioid addiction could happen to anyone at any point in life. However, there are some signs to look out for if you’re worried that you or your loved one is addicted to opioids.
Using opioids for a long time can harm the body with health effects that include:
An overdose happens when a person takes more drugs than their body can handle, causing unconsciousness or death. Sometimes it can be hard to tell if an opioid user is just very high, or actually experiencing a life-threatening overdose. If you are unsure, it is best to assume there is an overdose — you could save a life. The following are possible signs of an overdose:
In case of an emergency or if you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose, call 911. For more information about treatment and resources in Connecticut, call our 24/7 Access Line at 1-800-563-4086.
Call the Access Line