The WV Department of Human Services Notes Drop in Overdose Deaths

The Office of Drug Control Policy (ODCP,) which is part of the WV Department of Human Services (WVDoHS) has just released information that a comparison of the number of drug overdose deaths in the state dropped in the first four months of 2024 compared to the same months in 2023 by about 34%. That trend continues since there was a 28% drop last month compared to the same month last year.  The ODPC suggests that the yearly drop this year over last year appears to be no less then a 25% drop, although those figures are not all in due to pending autopsies.

“This decline in overdose deaths is a promising sign, but it’s not a signal to let up. We are not backing off–we are doubling down,” said Dr. Stephen Loyd, DoHS Office of Drug Control Policy Director. “The fight to save lives continues. We’ve seen improvements, but our mission is far from complete. We are pushing forward, expanding access to naloxone, treatment, and other critical resources to drive this number down even further.”

According to their press release, this decline is similar to a national trend showing improvements.

Christina Mullins, the Deputy Secretary of WV Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders explained that because every life matters, they will continue to expand their prevention and treatment programs to maintain this decreasing trend in overdose deaths.

The ODCP, in conjunction with the Governor’s Council on Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment continues to ramp up their efforts through increased Naloxone distribution and expanded treatment programs. So far in 2024, the DoHS has distributed 72,437 Naloxone kits so far and is on track to surpass last year’s distribution record.

Since 2020, the state agencies have supplied naloxone for free at the states “Save a Life Day,” and has consistently outpaced the national averages in engaging opioid addicted individuals into treatment programs. This affects the overdose rates because studies show that those who receive outpatient or residential drug treatment are significantly less likely to experience a fatal overdose.

If there is anyone out there who is struggling with addiction or mental health challenges, we encourage them to reach out to “www.HELP4WV.com” a 24/7 helpline offering immediate assistance, confidential support, and resource materials, again that is “www.HELP4WV.com”

 

Story By

Tim Walker

Tim is the WVMR News Reporter. Tim is a native of Maryland who started coming to Pocahontas County in the 1970’s as a caver. He bought land on Droop Mountain off Jacox Road in 1976 and built a small house there in the early 80’s. While still working in Maryland, Tim spent much time at his place which is located on the Friars Hole Cave Preserve. Retiring in 2011 as a Lieutenant with the Anne Arundel County Police Department in Maryland, Tim finally took the plunge and moved from Maryland to his real home on Droop Mountain. He began working as the Pocahontas County Reporter for Allegheny Mountain Radio in January of 2015.

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