Reports from the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) state that approximately 13 Ohioans die each day from unintentional drug overdoses. The ODH also states that there were more than 4,400 unintentional drug overdose deaths in 2023. These staggering numbers indicate that there is an undeniable need for services that provide addiction treatment in Ohio. Thankfully, the state has some initiatives in place to address the disease of substance abuse and dependence.
Governor Mike DeWine launched the Recovery Ohio initiative to bring together the efforts of state agencies, boards, and commissions by using existing resources and exploring new opportunities. In collaboration with local governments, coalitions, and task forces, Recovery Ohio focuses on building a system that expands access to treatment, strengthens recovery support for individuals and families, guides the state’s prevention and education strategies, and equips law enforcement with tools to combat illicit drugs at their source.
Additionally, Recovery Ohio partnered with the ODH and the Ohio Department of Mental Health Services to create Naloxone Ohio. This resource provides Ohioans with a way to access naloxone, a drug that can help save people experiencing opioid overdoses.