Bayhealth Goes Purple in Support of Substance Use Disorder Awareness

Bayhealth is raising awareness about substance use disorder in support of the statewide initiative, “Delaware Goes Purple” this October. The mission is to remove the stigma associated with addiction, provide support and inform community members about access to local resources.

“Unfortunately, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are seeing increased rates of substance use and overdose. We are working closely with our state agencies to support the community,” said Bayhealth Behavioral Health Clinical Nurse Specialist Amanda Fisher, BS, MSN, APRN, AGCNS-BC, CEN. “Substance use isn’t something that just affects the individuals involved, it also impacts family members, friends and caregivers.”

Bayhealth is working with the State of Delaware to host two drive-thru naloxone distribution and resource centers in both Kent and Sussex counties. The staff in the distribution tents will train people how to identify an overdose and teach them how to administer naloxone. Those trained will immediately receive a free opioid rescue kit. The naloxone distribution and resource centers will be set up on the below dates, times and locations:

• Wednesday, Oct. 28, at Blue Hen Corporate Center, 655 S. Bay Rd, Dover, DE 19901 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• UPDATE: Due to inclement weather, the drive-thru naloxone distribution and resource center scheduled for Friday, October 30 at Bayhealth Sussex Campus has been rescheduled for Friday, November 6 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The tent will be located in parking lot A. Those trained will immediately receive a free opioid rescue kit.

Community members can also show their support virtually by joining Bayhealth’s Moment of Prayer and Meditation on Friday, Oct. 23 at 1:30 p.m. on the Bayhealth Facebook page.

Visit HelpisHereDE.com for access to substance use disorder resources in the community.