Substance Use in Jefferson County

Substance use is a concern in communities across the nation, and Jefferson County is no exception. It impacts our health, society, and economy. Understanding how serious this issue is and its effects is crucial to properly addressing it. This page aims to show the importance of dealing with substance use in our county. Here you will find substance use education, local data showing the impact in Jefferson County, and various resources available to individuals.

What is substance use?

Per the CDC, Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) are treatable, chronic diseases characterized by a problematic pattern of use of a substance or substances leading to impairments in health, social function, and control over substance use. It is a cluster of cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms indicating that the individual continues using the substance despite harmful consequences. Patterns of symptoms resulting from substance use (drugs or alcohol) can help a doctor diagnose a person with a SUD or SUDs. SUDs can range in severity from mild to severe and can affect people of any race, gender, income level, or social class.

Common signs of an opioid overdose:

  • Unresponsiveness

  • Shallow or no breathing

  • Small pinpoint pupils

  • Clammy skin

  • Gurgling noises

  • Blue-gray lips and nails

Overdose risk factors:

  • Previous overdose

  • Period of sobriety

  • Respiratory illness

  • Mixing opioids with other substances

  • Using alone

  • Using by injecting

  • Change in amount used or strength of supply

 

Substance Use Resources

Naloxone: Preventing Overdose Deaths

Naloxone is a medication that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose. It is safe and easy to use. Anyone at risk of having or seeing an opioid overdose, or who spends time with people who use opioids, should consider carrying naloxone.

Jefferson County Health Department provides naloxone for free at both office locations. There are multiple organizations in Jefferson County, and across the state, that provide naloxone for free.

Free naloxone is available at any of these organizations:

*You can also get naloxone from Missouri pharmacies without a prescription under the state standing order.