Addressing opioid overdose takes a comprehensive and holistic approach

Opioids – such as prescription painkillers and heroin – are powerful drugs that are highly addictive. Opioids slow breathing and heartbeat, and act on the brain to relieve pain. They can rewire brain chemistry, making anyone susceptible to addiction. Opioid use disorder (OUD) can have potentially devastating consequences for people who experience addiction and for their families and our communities.  

In Vermont, the number of deaths due to opioid overdose has increased almost 500% in the last 10 years. The synthetic opioid, fentanyl, which is 50 times stronger than heroin, has been a driving force in the increase of overdoses.

The Vermont Department of Health has taken a comprehensive and holistic, inter-divisional approach to address OUD and prevent overdose deaths. Strategies include increasing public awareness, supporting community-based services and enhancements in Vermont’s health systems. These strategies have been developed and evolved in coordination with programs across the Health Department and with partners across the state.

Learn more about opioid overdose-specific initiatives.

Increasing awareness of the harms of OUD and how to prevent, recognize and respond to an opioid overdose

Supporting community-based needs and services to address OUD and overdose

Evolving health and other systems to better meet people where they are and provide supported treatment for sustained recovery

 

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VT Helplink is a free resource that provides confidential, non-judgmental support and referrals to Vermont’s treatment and recovery services based on Vermonters’ needs and unique experiences.

Contact us
Substance Use Programs (DSU)

Vermont Department of Health
280 State Drive
Waterbury, VT 05671-8340

802-651-1550
ahs.vdhdsu@vermont.gov 

Opioid-Related Reports