We lose thousands of lives to drug overdoses every year – and rapid intervention and widespread awareness could prevent many of those tragedies. In honor of International Overdose Awareness Day on Aug. 31, EHN Health USA has joined the global call to reduce stigma, increase understanding, and save lives.
Whether accidental or intentional, an overdose is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Knowing the signs can make the difference between life and death – and seeking treatment afterward can be a critical turning point toward recovery.
What Causes an Overdose?
An overdose occurs when a person takes more drugs than their body can safely handle. The resulting brain and nervous system overwhelm can be life-threatening or fatal.
Overdoses can happen with:
- Prescription medications like opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants
- Illicit drugs such as heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, or methamphetamine
- Alcohol, particularly when combined with other depressants
- Over-the-counter medications, especially in large quantities or when mixed with other substances
Sometimes, overdoses are the result of trying to achieve a stronger effect. In other cases, people may unknowingly ingest a dangerous substance (such as fentanyl-laced drugs) or relapse after a period of sobriety, not realizing their tolerance has decreased.
Symptoms of an Overdose
Warning signs of an overdose vary depending on the substance involved.
Opioids (e.g., heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone):
- Slow or irregular breathing
- Blue or gray lips and fingernails
- Cold or clammy skin
- Pinpoint pupils
- Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness
- Limp body
Stimulants (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine):
- Rapid heart rate
- Agitation or paranoia
- Chest pain
- Elevated body temperature
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
Alcohol:
- Confusion
- Vomiting
- Slow or irregular breathing
- Hypothermia
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
Any of these symptoms warrant immediate medical attention, especially when several of them overlap. Immediately call 911 if you suspect someone near you has experienced an overdose. Even if they survive, they may face long-term consequences such as cognitive impairment or chronic health issues. That’s why seeking emergency medical care is always the safest course of action.
The Case for Treatment After an Overdose
Drugs interfere with your body’s ability to sustain vital functions. Depressants like opioids and alcohol can slow or stop breathing, while stimulants can cause heart attacks or strokes. Brain damage, organ failure, or death may follow without swift intervention.
Surviving an overdose is a powerful warning sign that something needs to change. Unfortunately, many people leave the emergency room without receiving the follow-up care they need to prevent the cycle from repeating.
EHN Health USA provides compassionate, evidence-based care to address the root causes of substance use – such as trauma, anxiety, depression, or chronic stress. Our virtual outpatient program offers:
- Therapy and counseling to address underlying mental health conditions
- Medical support, including psychiatric consultations and medication management
- Structured relapse prevention planning
- Small-group sessions for connection, support, and accountability
- Confidential telehealth access, so you can receive care from home
Accessible Support for Real-Life Recovery
Virtual care can put help within your reach if you feel overwhelmed, ashamed, or unsure where to start. You don’t have to travel, explain long absences to an employer, or leave your family behind to access professional support. With EHN Health USA, recovery fits into your life – without compromising the quality of the care you receive.
If you’ve experienced an overdose, don’t wait for a second chance. EHN Health USA provides the tools, guidance, and structure you need. Reach out today to learn if our outpatient program is your next step.
