Colorado leaders are working together across our state to find solutions to end prescription drug misuse and addiction and to keep our communities safe. This holiday season, as each of us spends time with our friends and loved ones, we all have an opportunity to help raise awareness and prevent misuse. You can help by:
Taking time to talk to your family and friends about the issue – make sure they understand the dangers related to prescription drug misuse. Remind them that prescription medications should only be taken by the person to whom they were prescribed. Share www.rali-co.org with them for helpful resources and links to leading Colorado organizations addressing this important issue.
Keep any prescription drugs you are taking secure, and especially out of the reach of children and teenagers. When you are finished with the prescription, safely dispose of any medication that is left over.That can prevent others from misusing the medication, and that’s an important way to help prevent addiction. Safe disposal tips are also available on www.rali-co.org. And remember, there are 150 locations across our state that are open year-round that accept unused medications for safe disposal.
Learn about the warning signs that someone may be misusing opioids. Early intervention is critical and can keep misuse from turning into addiction.There is information about warning signs on www.rali-co.org.
Colorado residents can also access www.takemedsseriously.org - a state resource with information about safe use, storage and disposal of prescription medications including opioids.
Remember the holidays can be stressful for someone struggling with addiction or who is in recovery. If you or someone you know needs help, resources are available.Visit www.findtreatment.gov or call 800-662-HELP (4357) to find treatment providers near you.
Coloradans can also find state treatment resources, including those for opioid use disorder, from the Colorado Department of Human Services: https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdhs/opioid-treatment-programs-otps. As always, if there is a life-threatening emergency call 9-1-1.
From all of us at RALI Colorado and our partners, have a safe and healthy holiday season.