07/23/2026
The opioid crisis has touched every American family in some way—as a parent, spouse, child, friend, or neighbor. It is still going strong and there seems to be no end in sight.
One of the most dangerous myths is that overdose only happens when someone is actively struggling. In reality, many overdoses occur after a period of sobriety or when a person is trying to get clean because their tolerance has changed.
Carry naloxone. A lot of it. Learn how to use it. Encourage others to do the same. It can save a life in minutes. Calling 911 won't help when they are 30 minutes away.
As a society, we are long past the point of sweeping this issue under the rug. Addiction, homelessness, and overdose are realities and pretending otherwise helps no one. Families across the board are living with the consequences every day.
Whether you agree with current policies or not, the responsibility to look out for one another cannot be outsourced. Compassion, awareness, and practical action matter.
A life saved today may be the person who finds recovery tomorrow. In Maricopa County AZ naloxone is available at all public libraries without a prescription.
