SGA, the Gallogly Recreation and Wellness Center and the Colorado Springs Police Department each offer resources for opioid overdoses and addictions to students.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there has been a national decline in the number of drug overdose deaths; however, overdoses remain the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-44.
Fentanyl Strips
On March 6, SGA passed a fentanyl test strip bill, which allocated funding for 2,000 fentanyl test strips to be distributed from the Wellness Center and Mosaic. Fentanyl test strips can be used to detect the presence of fentanyl in a drug.
The bill, presented by Asher Early, senator of clubs, organizations and Greek life, passed unanimously, according to previous Scribe reporting. Once the first supply is depleted, Early said he plans to renew the bill for an additional 2,000 strips.
Wellness Center Resources
The wellness center conducts Narcan and opioid overdose training monthly, where students, staff and faculty members learn how to recognize an overdose and become certified to administer Narcan, a nasal spray that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
At the end of the training, participants receive a free dose of Narcan, fentanyl test strips and a certificate of completion. Narcan is also available in the Wellness Center, in AED cabinets across campus and at Mosaic.
The final opioid response training of the spring semester will be held on May 2. Students can sign up for training here.
Benek Altayli, the interim assistant vice chancellor for health and wellness, said conducting Narcan trainings will reduce stigma and enhance campus safety by fostering open conversations about drug misuse.
“Judgment has no place in our discussions. If we can approach those [conversations] with that healthy attitude, then we have a tremendous chance of keeping our campus safe. So please come join our meetings, make suggestions, tell us what you need, and we’ll do our very best to be able to provide that,” Altayli said.
In addition to the overdose trainings, the Wellness Center offers clinical services to help treat addiction, including opioid dependence. The services are most often used to treat patients for alcohol and marijuana dependence, Altayli said.
Students can make an appointment for alcohol and substance abuse counseling by calling the Wellness Center at (719) 255-4444 or by visiting the Wellness Center in person. Normal operating hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. The first three appointments each semester are free, and each additional appointment is $20.
CSPD Opioid Response Team
On Feb. 24, the Colorado Springs Fire Department added a targeted opioid response team that will follow up on 911 opioid overdose calls. The team assesses overdose and withdrawal status and begins voluntary medical-assisted treatment with buprenorphine strips.
Buprenorphine is a medication that prevents withdrawal symptoms and reduces drug cravings without creating a euphoric feeling. When necessary, the team also provides free Narcan kits and Narcan training for patients, family and friends.
Students can access this resource by calling 911 and requesting the opioid response team.
Photo courtesy of Everyday Health.