An overdose occurs when someone takes more intoxicating substances than their body can safely handle, which can quickly overwhelm vital systems and lead to life-threatening complications.
In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day on Aug. 31, it’s critical to understand how and why overdoses happen, how to recognize the signs, and what to do in a crisis.
Why Do Overdoses Happen?
Overdoses can happen for several reasons.
- Accidental: Taking too much of a drug without realizing its potency or interactions.
- Intentional: Using drugs to self-harm or chase a more intense high.
- Polysubstance use: Combining substances like alcohol and opioids can have unpredictable and dangerous effects.
- Reduced tolerance: Someone who returns to drinking or drug use after a period of sobriety may misjudge how much their body can now tolerate.
- Contaminated supply: Fentanyl-laced drugs have significantly increased the risk of fatal overdoses.
What Drugs Do People Overdose On?
Whether it’s alcohol, prescription drugs, or illicit substances, knowing what to look for could save a life.
- Opioids (fentanyl, heroin, oxycodone)
- Benzodiazepines Xanax, Valium)
- Stimulants (cocaine, methamphetamine)
- Alcohol
- Sleep aids and sedatives
- Synthetic drugs (spice, bath salts)
Signs of an Overdose
Symptoms vary depending on the substance involved, but common signs include:
- Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness
- Slow or irregular breathing
- Blue or gray skin tone, especially lips or fingertips
- Vomiting or gurgling sounds
- Seizures
- Cold or clammy skin
- Dilated or pinpoint pupils
- Erratic or stopped heartbeat
Alcohol poisoning symptoms can include:
- Inability to wake up
- Confusion or stupor
- Taking fewer than eight breaths per minute
- Seizures
- Low body temperature
How to Respond to an Overdose
If you suspect someone has overdosed, immediately call 911, then try to wake them up. Administer naloxone if the person has taken opioids and you have a supply on hand. Place the victim in the recovery position to prevent choking and stay with them until first responders arrive.
Many states, including Texas, have Good Samaritan laws to protect people who provide reasonable help in good faith during emergencies like a drug overdose. That means you can intervene without fear of legal consequences.
The Link Between Overdose and Addiction
Overdoses are often a red flag of substance use disorder. People may not intend to endanger themselves, but addiction’s compulsive nature makes it difficult to stop, even when they’re aware of the risks.
Some people overdose more than once. Unfortunately, the experience doesn’t always inspire immediate change. That’s why intervention and comprehensive treatment are essential after a nonfatal overdose.
How to Convince Someone to Accept Treatment
Surviving an overdose might seem like the wake-up call your loved one needs to accept help, but denial and fear can keep them stuck. Here’s what you can do:
- Speak from a place of love, not blame.
- Emphasize that you want what’s best for them.
- Explain that addiction is a disease, not a moral failure.
- Suggest an immediate next step – like entering treatment at Legacy Texas.
- Hire a professional interventionist if you need to overcome objections.
Legacy Texas offers a men-only treatment environment that emphasizes accountability, discipline, emotional wellness, and personal transformation. We encourage our clients to build lives filled with purpose and clarity and give them the tools they need to achieve long-term sobriety.
Every life lost due to overdose is a preventable tragedy. Don’t wait for another crisis – contact us today.