In 2016, over 63,600 people died of a drug overdose in the United States; over 66% of those involved an opioid. Nationally, as well as in our own communities, we are experiencing rapid increases in the number of deaths and overdoses involving prescription medications and illicit opioids. Fairfax County has a plan to work towards addressing the crisis. Part of this plan includes you, the residents of our community.

In April, there are free community involvement opportunities that will allow residents to learn more about the opioid crisis, why it is a danger, and preventative measures people can take.

Clinicians from the Fairfax Falls Church Community Services Board, the Fairfax County Health Department, law enforcement, people living in recovery, and family advocates are involved in the community events listed below. The public is encouraged to attend, ask questions, and get involved in fighting the opioid crisis and saving lives.

• OPIOIDS: A Fairfax City Community Conversation. A timely discussion about the nationwide epidemic and preventative measures we can take. Thursday, April 19, 7 to 9 p.m., Sherwood Community Center, 3740 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax. Contact Louise Armitage, 703-385-7894.
• A Community Conversation about the Opioid Crisis: Students in 7th-12th grades and their parents. Saturday, April 28, 1 to 5 p.m. Epiphany Episcopal Church, 3301 Hidden Meadow Drive, Herndon, VA 20171. Register online at https://epiphanyes.org/occc (copy/paste the link in your browser).
• Operation Medicine Cabinet Cleanout. Take advantage of a free, convenient, confidential and safe disposal of unused or expired medications during Operation Medicine Cabinet Cleanout on Saturday, April 28. Drop off medications at any of the eight Fairfax County District Police Stations (pills or liquids only, no pressurized canisters or needles) between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
• REVIVE training opportunities. REVIVE! trains individuals on what to do and not do in an overdose situation, how to administer naloxone, and what to do afterwards. Each attendee also receives a free REVIVE! kit, which includes all the supplies needed to administer naloxone. The medication itself can be acquired at a pharmacy after completing the training. Attendees also receive a safety plan to help individuals prevent overdose if they relapse.
  • April 10, Fairfax, Merrifield Center, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
  • April 15, Chantilly, A New Beginning, 3 to 4 p.m.
  • April 25, Alexandria, Gartlan Center, 1 to 2 p.m.

If you know someone with a drug, alcohol, or mental health problem, help is here. Call the CSB at 703-383-8500. In an emergency 24/7, contact Fairfax Detox at 703-502-7000 or CSB Emergency Services at 703-573-5679. Call 911 in a life-threatening emergency.