Craven County Opioid Epidemic Response

01/12/2026

Different treatment options exist for substance use disorders—there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Recovery is a deeply personal journey, and what works for one person might be different for another. Clinical addiction care offers a diverse range of treatments, from outpatient counseling to residential programs, designed to meet you exactly where you are today.
You don’t have to figure it out alone. Explore your options and find treatment that works for you: findtreatment.gov

01/09/2026

Small steps lead to big changes. This New Year, focus on one day at a time. Every day is a new opportunity to make healthier decisions. Help is available for you or someone you know: findtreatment.gov

01/07/2026

Did you know that the way we talk about substance use can actually be a barrier to someone getting help? Words like "addict" or "user" carry shame that can prevent people from seeking help.
This , we’re choosing Person-First Language.
By leading with empathy, we recognize that:
- SUD is a treatable medical condition.
- The individual is more than their diagnosis.
- Everyone deserves dignity.
Let’s break the stigma and choose words that support recovery.

01/05/2026

New Year, New Beginnings. If you're seeking help for opioid, alcohol or other substance use, treatment options are available. Taking that first step can lead to health & healing. You’re not alone—help is available. Findtreatment.gov

12/30/2025

As we look back on the past year, we are overwhelmed by the support of our community. Being able to connect with close to a 1,000 of you at our trainings and events has been the highlight of our year.
Beyond the conversations, we’ve worked hard to put safety tools directly into your hands, distributing 958 doses of Naloxone, 250 disposal kits, and 165 storage kits.
Your commitment to safety makes our work possible. Thank you for showing up, learning with us, and taking care of one another. We’re just getting started!

12/29/2025

According to SAMHSA, over 48 million Americans (nearly 17%) struggled with a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) last year. Even more striking? Only 1 in 5 people who needed treatment actually received it.
This , we are working to close that gap by supporting:
- Those seeking help for their own journey.
- Practitioners providing life-saving care.
- Families and friends walking alongside their loved ones.
We’re here to break down barriers, encourage everyone on the recovery path, and promote best practices like life-saving Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) and early screening.
Recovery is possible, and help is closer than you think. Let’s make sure nobody has to wait for the care they deserve.

12/23/2025

12/22/2025

The holidays are about coming together, but they can also be a high-stress time for many in our community. While you’re celebrating, keep a close eye on your loved ones. Knowing the signs of an overdose is one of the most important ways we can show up for each other this season. Check out this guide on what to look for and how to help.

12/17/2025

December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. It's important to remember that "impaired" means more than just alcohol. The misuse of any substance, including illegal substances, prescription medication, or over-the-counter medications can dangerously affect your ability to drive.

Before you head out to celebrate this holiday season, keep these tips in mind:
- Plan ahead: Decide on a sober driver before the first drink is poured.
- Read labels: Even legal medications can impair your ability to drive.
- Use your options: Uber, Lyft, taxis, and public transit are always better than taking a risk.
Let’s keep our community safe this holiday season. If you feel different, you drive different. 🚗

12/15/2025

Just like the Opioid Outreach Elf, our team is dedicated to supporting and protecting our community!
We want everyone to have a safe and healthy holiday season. Our office is stocked with free life-saving resources available to anyone who needs them, no questions asked.

Stop by or reach out to us for:
- Naloxone (Narcan)
- Medication Safety Materials (Lockboxes & Disposal kits)
- Educational Resources on substance use and staying safe

Whether it’s during the holidays or any other time of year, we are here for you. Let’s look out for one another! ❤️

12/10/2025

If someone in your life is dealing with Substance Use Disorder (SUD), knowing how to show up for them is crucial. This post has some tips on how you can offer them support, from starting the conversation to setting healthy boundaries and helping them access treatment.
It's also important to remember that relapse can be a part of the recovery process. If it happens, treat it as a signal to adjust the treatment plan, and not as a reason to give up hope. Continue to offer support and encourage them to get back into treatment.
For Additional Resources:
- Find Local Treatment Options: FindTreatment.gov
- Immediate Crisis Support: Call or text 988.
- Local Guidance: Our office is also here to help guide and support in any way. Please reach Out!

12/08/2025

Stigma is one of the biggest barriers to recovery.

Here are three simple ways to combat stigma and help people recover:
Use Person-First Language: Say "person with Substance Use Disorder," not "addict." Focus on the person, not the label.
Educate Yourself: Remember, SUD is a chronic brain disease, not a moral failure. Treat it with compassion.
Be an Ally: Learn the signs of overdose and know how to use Naloxone. Offer safe, non-judgmental support.