Substance Use

Anyone can save a life by carrying naloxone/NARCAN®. It is safe and easy to give to reverse an opioid overdose. Get NARCAN® today. It’s available near you: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/opioids/safer-use.htm
There are simple ways to reduce the dangers of opioid use. Whether it is following tips for safer use, disposing of unused medications, or knowing how to respond to an overdose, it all makes a difference.
Learn more at: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/opioids/index.htm
Fentanyl: You can’t feel it, see it, smell it, or taste it.
A tiny amount—as little as two grains of salt—is enough to kill someone. People all over Wisconsin are unknowingly taking drugs containing fentanyl and overdosing because the drugs look identical to what they are used to taking. Get the facts on fentanyl to know how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
For more information visit: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/opioids/facts.htm
Safe Use Tips to Reduce Substance Use Harms
While these tips won’t eliminate all dangers of opioids, they will lower your chances of an overdose, infection or harmful outcome. The purpose is to keep people who use opioids and other substance alive and well. Learn more here: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/opioids/safer-use.htm
- Come up with an overdose plan. Talk to family members and friends about what they can do to help you in case of an overdose.
- Naloxone/NARCAN® saves lives. Naloxone/NARCAN® is the overdose reversal drug. Carry it with you. Let others know you have it. A trusted family member or friend can administer naloxone/NARCAN® to save your life. It can take more than one dose of naloxone/NARCAN® to reverse an overdose.
- It’s dangerous to take opioids when you are alone. If a trusted family member or friend is around and alert, they can look for the signs of an overdose and administer naloxone/NARCAN® should an overdose occur. If a trusted family member or friend is not available, call Never Use Alone.
- Mixing drugs is risky. Combining opioids with other drugs, including alcohol, puts you at greater risk for an overdose.
- Consider your physical health. People living with asthma or other breathing problems, kidney issues, liver issues, and HIV are at high risk for an overdose.
Real Talks – It takes all of us to help prevent and reduce substance use.

Connecting with people is a meaningful way we can reduce and prevent substance use. Conversation can be powerful. Having frequent, open and real talks about substance use can give someone the information they need to make healthy choices and find support. You can make a real difference. Start here: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/real-talks/index.htm
Additional Resources:
- Tri-County Crisis Number (Forest, Oneida, Vilas): 1-888-299-1188
- Wisconsin Tobacco Quit Line: Text READY to 200-400 or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669)
- Dial 211: local resources and referrals
- Text or call 988 for 24/7 crisis support
- If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call 911 immediately.
