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Dear Prevention,
The other day, I saw a post on social media that caught my attention. A neighbor had received free naloxone, a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses, but was offering it up to anyone who might “actually need it.”
They wrote, “My kids are young, so I don’t need it.”
It struck me how this comment, though well-intentioned, illustrates a common misperception—that naloxone is only for those who are directly impacted by opioid use disorder or living with someone who is.
In reality, every single one of us should carry naloxone.
Why?
Because opioid overdoses can happen anywhere, at any time, and often to those we least expect.
Opioid overdoses can happen in places we frequent every day—
in public restrooms,
at a coffee shop,
in a grocery store parking lot.
Having naloxone on hand means that you could potentially save the life of a stranger, a friend, or even a loved one who accidentally encounters opioids.
The idea that some people don’t “need” naloxone comes from the stigma and misunderstanding that addiction is something that only affects certain people in certain places. Many of us working in this field have met far too many grieving families from those "unimpacted" areas to believe such a thing.
But the truth is, overdose deaths affect people from all walks of life and touch every community. By carrying naloxone, you’re not just preparing to save a life; you’re also sending a message that every life is worth saving, regardless of circumstance.
Prevention Links believes that a healthy community is one where we all play a role in looking out for one another. One where we don’t turn away or assume it’s “someone else’s problem.” By carrying naloxone, you’re doing more than just holding onto a medication—you’re holding onto the possibility of a second chance for someone, the opportunity to turn a tragedy into hope.
So, let’s challenge the mindset that we only need to carry naloxone if we or our loved ones are at risk. Let’s carry it for everyone. Because overdose prevention is community care. And community care starts with each of us. Our Community Prevention team can provide you with a naloxone kit and training free of charge. Please contact us at prevention@preventionlinks.org
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