Craven County Opioid Epidemic Response

12/29/2025

According to SAMHSA, over 48 million Americans (nearly 17%) struggled with a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) last year. Even more striking? Only 1 in 5 people who needed treatment actually received it.
This , we are working to close that gap by supporting:
- Those seeking help for their own journey.
- Practitioners providing life-saving care.
- Families and friends walking alongside their loved ones.
We’re here to break down barriers, encourage everyone on the recovery path, and promote best practices like life-saving Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) and early screening.
Recovery is possible, and help is closer than you think. Let’s make sure nobody has to wait for the care they deserve.

12/23/2025

12/22/2025

The holidays are about coming together, but they can also be a high-stress time for many in our community. While you’re celebrating, keep a close eye on your loved ones. Knowing the signs of an overdose is one of the most important ways we can show up for each other this season. Check out this guide on what to look for and how to help.

12/17/2025

December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. It's important to remember that "impaired" means more than just alcohol. The misuse of any substance, including illegal substances, prescription medication, or over-the-counter medications can dangerously affect your ability to drive.

Before you head out to celebrate this holiday season, keep these tips in mind:
- Plan ahead: Decide on a sober driver before the first drink is poured.
- Read labels: Even legal medications can impair your ability to drive.
- Use your options: Uber, Lyft, taxis, and public transit are always better than taking a risk.
Let’s keep our community safe this holiday season. If you feel different, you drive different. 🚗

12/15/2025

Just like the Opioid Outreach Elf, our team is dedicated to supporting and protecting our community!
We want everyone to have a safe and healthy holiday season. Our office is stocked with free life-saving resources available to anyone who needs them, no questions asked.

Stop by or reach out to us for:
- Naloxone (Narcan)
- Medication Safety Materials (Lockboxes & Disposal kits)
- Educational Resources on substance use and staying safe

Whether it’s during the holidays or any other time of year, we are here for you. Let’s look out for one another! ❤️

12/10/2025

If someone in your life is dealing with Substance Use Disorder (SUD), knowing how to show up for them is crucial. This post has some tips on how you can offer them support, from starting the conversation to setting healthy boundaries and helping them access treatment.
It's also important to remember that relapse can be a part of the recovery process. If it happens, treat it as a signal to adjust the treatment plan, and not as a reason to give up hope. Continue to offer support and encourage them to get back into treatment.
For Additional Resources:
- Find Local Treatment Options: FindTreatment.gov
- Immediate Crisis Support: Call or text 988.
- Local Guidance: Our office is also here to help guide and support in any way. Please reach Out!

12/08/2025

Stigma is one of the biggest barriers to recovery.

Here are three simple ways to combat stigma and help people recover:
Use Person-First Language: Say "person with Substance Use Disorder," not "addict." Focus on the person, not the label.
Educate Yourself: Remember, SUD is a chronic brain disease, not a moral failure. Treat it with compassion.
Be an Ally: Learn the signs of overdose and know how to use Naloxone. Offer safe, non-judgmental support.

12/03/2025

Stigma isn't always obvious. Sometimes it's the words we use, other times, it's the systemic barriers we overlook.
To end the stigma around Substance Use Disorder, we first need to recognize it.

Stigma shows up in three key ways:
- Social Stigma: Using harmful labels like "ju**ie" or "user."
- Self-Stigma: The internalized shame and guilt that prevents seeking treatment.
- Structural Stigma: Discrimination in housing, employment, and healthcare.
Our words and our policies matter. Unintentional language and discrimination can be the difference between someone seeking help and suffering alone.

12/01/2025

When it comes to Substance Use Disorder (SUD), stigma is not just harmful, it's a barrier that costs lives. Fear of judgment, shame, and discrimination actively blocks help and keeps people suffering in silence.

This holiday season, let's create an environment where everyone feels safe seeking support.

11/25/2025

While the holiday season often brings joy, it can also be a time of increased stress and isolation, potentially escalating substance use for those facing challenges.

Early recognition is critical, and seasonal stress can sometimes make symptoms more visible.
Look out for:
- Changes in behavior or extreme mood shifts.
- Increased isolation from family gatherings.
- Neglect of responsibilities or appearance.

Check our flyer for a more comprehensive list of signs, and some tips on how to help. Your support can make the difference.

11/19/2025

Thank you so much to everyone who came out to walk, talk, and show your support during the Walk for Recovery last Friday! Your energy made it a truly powerful day for bringing awareness to substance use and celebrating recovery.

The Conversation Doesn't Stop Here!
If you or a loved one needs help, remember that the Craven County Opioid Epidemic Response is here for you. We offer vital services to our community, including:
- Free Naloxone Training and Kits
- Free Medication Disposal and Storage Options
- Linkage to Local Treatment and Recovery Options
- And more!

Recovery is a journey, and we're here to walk it with you.


Craven County Health Department NCWorks Craven

11/14/2025

A huge thank you to the students of Craven Community College's Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Alpha Phi Nu Chapter, for inviting the Craven County Opioid Epidemic Response to be part of the "Journey of Awareness: Addiction Revealed" Storytelling Event! We were honored to attend and share our resources and connect with the community.
Thank you for leading this vital initiative, and let's keep the conversation going!