Opioid Overdose & Prevention

Learn more about opioid overdose and resources for prevention in American Indian/Alaska Native communities.

Heroes Carry Narcan

Opioid overdose prevention is a top priority in our work to build action for American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) community health. Opioid use disorder and opioid overdose are major public health concerns in the United States and in our AI/AN communities. From 2020-2022, AI/AN people had the highest mortality rates from opioid overdose when compared to other racial groups. Opioid overdose is preventable, and we have the power to protect our people.

 

Naloxone, commercially known as Narcan, can reverse an opioid overdose. It is a critical tool in the opioid crisis because Narcan has the power to save lives. Carrying and knowing how to use Narcan is an act of love. When we carry and use Narcan, we can make a difference. That’s why we believe Heroes Carry Narcan.  

 

Urban Indian Organizations, Tribal health departments, and Native-led organizations are leaders in providing community-attuned care and programming to address the opioid epidemic. We invite you to use these resources as you see fit to support your work with AI/AN relatives across Indian country.

It can be difficult to tell if someone is overdosing on opioids. 

If you think someone is overdosing, watch this video for step by step instructions on how to respond.

Looking for Narcan in your area? Use our interactive map to locate UIOs and Narcan near you. 

Responsive Tableau Map Embed Full Height

Resources: Heroes Carry Narcan Campaign

The resources below are designed to support the message that carrying Narcan is a powerful way to protect our community. Use these materials to encourage the carrying and use of Narcan in your community and learn how to use it effectively as an act of love.

Heroes Carry Narcan Pocket Resource

Use this pocket-sized, practical guide to learn how to use Narcan and reverse an opioid overdose.

Heroes Carry Narcan
Info Card

Carry this card with you for a quick reference guide in the event of an opioid overdose.

Posters

Print these posters to promote the message that carrying Narcan is an act of love and we have the power to protect our people from an opioid overdose.

We Have the Power (Navy)

We Have the Power (Purple)

Reports

Annotated Bibliography: Opioid Overdose Response in AI/AN Communities

Primer: Impact of the Opioid Epidemic on AI/AN People

National Naloxone Availability Survey Report

Related Resources

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for.

Be First To Know About The News

Sign up to receive a digest of the latest resources and opportunities. No spam, we promise!

Urban Indian Health Institute Mailing List Signup

Please enter your email address and name below to sign up for our mailing list.