Calvert Library Hosting National Issues Forum Conversation on Opioids February 6, 2019 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Robyn Truslow 410-535-0291
“For the first time in U.S. history, a person is more likely to die from an accidental opioid overdose than from a motor vehicle crash,” according to National Safety Council analysis.
What should we do about this opioid epidemic? That is the question the community will be discussing on Saturday, February 23, 2-4pm at Calvert Library Prince Frederick. The library is collaborating with the Calvert Alliance Against Substance Abuse, Calvert County Behavioral Health Services, Sheriff’s Office, State’s Attorney’s Office and Community Mediation Center to offer this opportunity to consider a variety of solutions. According to the National Issues Forums, “More than 64,000 Americans were killed by drug overdoses in 2016, according to the Centers for Disease Control. That is worse than the death toll at the peak of the HIV epidemic in 1995 and more than the number of US combat deaths in the entire Vietnam War. At least two-thirds of those 2016 drug deaths were caused by opioids.”
The format of the discussion is a presentation and deliberation of three options, a focus on treatment for all, on enforcement and on individual choice. Each option offers advantages and drawbacks and is based on different views and values. Is there a common ground that our community can come to in order to have an impact on this crisis? A booklet outlining the options is available to check out from the library. Join the conversation. For more information, call Robyn Truslow at 410-535-0291.
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