Osage Nation Counseling Center Takes Action To Combat Rising Trend Of Opioid Overdoses

Opioid overdoses are on the rise in Oklahoma, but Narcan can prevent those deaths.

Jennifer McGlothlin with the Osage Nation Counseling Center wants people in her community to be ready to help someone experiencing an overdose.

"It is scary," McGothlin said. "We like to think, not in our community, but instead what we are hoping is our community will embrace harm reduction, which is being prepared."

McGlothlin and other members of the Osage Nation Counseling Center handed out bags containing Narcan, Fentanyl test strips, and other resources.

Along with the resources, McGothlin provided educational pamphlets.

"Opioid use is everywhere," McGothlin said. "It has made its way to our little town in Pawhuska. It's all over Tulsa. And so everyone needs to be aware of the signs and symptoms of overdose, as well as to respond to that. Because let's be realistic, your first responder is the first person on the scene, not necessarily a policeman or a trained EMT."

It took more than a year to put this effort together.

McGlothlin partnered with the Oklahoma department of mental health and substance abuse to make it happen.

She hopes this training and making Narcan accessible to people will save lives.

"Every second counts," McGlothlin said.

The Osage Nation Counseling Center is planning another event for July.