Armley-based Forward Leeds will be sharing advice and information on what to do in the event of an overdose for International Overdose Awareness Day this week.
International Overdose Awareness Day is on Friday August 31 and Forward Leeds are using this to help members of the public to spot an overdose and understand what to do next.
Forward Leeds will have displays and posters in their hubs across the city – including Armley – and they will also be sharing messages on social media. The service is working with local pharmacies and health centres as well, all to raise awareness of what someone should do if they suspect an overdose.
Dr. Mark Hallam, Clinical Director at Forward Leeds said:
“People sometimes worry about if what they are seeing is an overdose or not. My advice is, if you think someone might be overdosing, there is a good chance they are so follow our guidance.
“The first thing to do is always call 999 and ask for an ambulance. Then put them into the recovery position. Always wait with them for the ambulance to arrive.
“Sometimes people worry that they will get into trouble if they call an ambulance but you won’t and you might be saving someone’s life.
“People usually think of illegal drugs when hearing about overdose but alcohol is a depressant and you can overdose on it. Often we call it acute alcohol poisoning and it can be a result of binge drinking.”
All week for International Overdose Awareness Day Forward Leeds have had memorial books in the reception areas of its hubs in Seacroft, Armley and Kirkgate in the city centre. Local people who have lost friends and family members because of drugs and or alcohol have been invited to enter names and tributes in the books.