The number of opioid overdose deaths has increased by 60-percent in the state and now Louisiana 2-1-1 is able to point you in the right direction to assist with opioid addiction.
President and CEO of Louisiana Association of United Ways, Sarah Berthelot said they can direct you to local resources, “Like treatment centers, supportive services, detox or simple information with the ability to opt-in to a live crisis intervention counselor that can provide tech support at any time.”
Berthelot said they worked in conjunction with the Louisiana Department of Health to develop Opioid Assistance with 211. She said LDH anticipates a forty-percent increase in opioid abuse in the next year.
“This is an opportunity for those that are suffering from opioid misuse to reach out for help in a confidential way. It’s also a way for family members and friends that are supporting others to find help,” said Berthelot.
In addition to 2-1-1’s 24/7 call center, Berthelot said you can also text the word OPIOID to 898-211. She said the texting option can also put you in contact with a live counselor.
“Being able to interact and receive this information using text is a preference, it’s available. We can serve an unlimited amount of people at the same time,” said Berthelot.
Since the soft launch of the opioid crisis referral program this spring, Berthelot said they’ve assisted more than 60 individuals.
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