COLUMBIA, S.C. ― October is Substance Use Prevention Month, and the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is joining the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) in highlighting the importance of prevention efforts and programs aimed at reducing harms associated with substance use.
In South Carolina, substance use has been a growing concern, with around 451,000 people dealing with substance-related problems, according to DAODAS. Drug overdose deaths have doubled since 2019, with 2,296 overdose deaths in 2022, the most recent year for which data is available, according to the annual Drug Overdose Deaths Statistical Report for South Carolina.
“Studies show that the earlier in life someone starts using alcohol or other drugs, the greater their lifetime risk of misuse or addiction,” said DAODAS Director Sara Goldsby. “We are so grateful that Governor McMaster has chosen to proclaim October as Substance Use Prevention Month in South Carolina, and we hope all South Carolinians will join us in celebrating the county alcohol and drug authorities, healthcare professionals, law enforcement agencies, youth-serving organizations, community volunteers, faith communities, schools, and other organizations that provide programs and services to raise awareness about the risks and dangers of alcohol and other drug use.”
October is also National Youth Substance Use Prevention Month, and DPH is encouraging residents to focus on early prevention by having healthy conversations with their children and loved ones about the severity of substance use disorder.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), nearly 14% of kids ages 12-17 used illicit drugs in 2021. DAODAS show that 23.1% of students in grades 9-12 in South Carolina drank alcohol in the past month.
“We are seeing youth substance use in South Carolina and we want parents to be aware of these statistics,” said Emma Kennedy, Director of the SC Department of Public Health’s Injury and Substance Use Prevention Section. “We are encouraging parents, caregivers, educators and community members to have open conversations with their children and youth around the dangers of misusing substances and illegal drug use.”
DPH has focused on providing naloxone to schools for emergency situations. Naloxone, when administered in time, can reverse the effects of overdose from opioids (oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, fentanyl, heroin and others). It is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and does not cause any harm if administered to someone not experiencing an opioid overdose. Naloxone is a nasal spray product and certain brands do not require a prescription.
DPH is also diligently working to enhance access to naloxone and fentanyl test strips statewide. Free Overdose Prevention Safety Kits are available to all community members at DPH health clinic locations. These kits contain fentanyl test strips, naloxone (Narcan), treatment resources and instructions for their use. No appointment is needed to receive a kit, and you do not have to provide identification.
For more information on local resources and support services, visit DPH’s Opioid Epidemic webpage and DAODAS’ Have Open Conversations webpage, visit embracerecoverysc.com or call the Statewide Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
