I t’s not just celebrities in the news who die from prescription or recreational drug overdose. This tragedy often hits much closer to home. Sometimes it’s a member of our own family, co-workers or neighbors. In fact, overdoses have caused more than 6,000 deaths in New Jersey since 2004, making it the leading cause of accidental death.
Many people who overdose from drugs die alone because friends or witnesses who could have saved them were too afraid to call someone to help.
This year, as we recognize International Overdose Awareness Day, New Jersey has a new tool to fight that fear and save lives. In May, Gov. Chris Christie signed the Overdose Prevention Act, known as the Good Samaritan Law, which exempts most people who report an active overdose to authorities from prosecution.
It is significant that Overdose Awareness Day corresponds in timing with the start of college, high school and, yes, even middle school. It’s a critical message for everyone, no matter the age: Save a life, don’t think twice. If you witness an overdose, call 911 immediately. Lynn Kovich Assistant Commissioner Division of Mental Health and
Addiction Services
New Jersey Department of
Human Services