LET’S TAKE COLLECTIVE ACTION


OPIOID MISUSE AND OVERDOSE

Addressing opioid misuse and overdose among Black residents in Durham, NC is of paramount importance. With 60% of Black residents impacted by this crisis, it is vital to recognize the profound effects on individuals, families, and the broader community. By focusing on this issue, we can strive to reduce health disparities and provide equitable access to care and support services. Through targeted efforts, we can work towards creating a healthier and more just society, where every resident has the opportunity to thrive and live a life free from the devastating impacts of opioid misuse and overdose. This is not just a health initiative, but a commitment to fostering resilience, hope, and a brighter future for all.

Project Overview: This two-year project (2022-2024) showcases a collaborative effort called "Communiversity," where the community (TRY) and university (North Carolina Central University – NCCU) identified on the previous page, work together with mutual respect for each other’s contributions. This collaboration aimed to tackle the opioid overdose crisis among Black residents in Durham, NC, through education, prevention, and support, using the strengths and resources of both partners to create lasting solutions.

BLACK TEENS IN CRISIS

TRY IS CONCERNED ABOUT ALL YOUTH The increase in health and wellness challenges among Black youth should be a priority in Durham is because: mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community [i] ; and in 2021 out of the students that attempted suicide 47.5% middle school students and 41% of high school students surveyed in Durham report were Black[iii]; and Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) exposure is correlated to higher rates of smoking, drug use, heavy alcohol use, poor educational and employment outcomes, incarceration, and involvement in violence both as a perpetrator and victim[iv] Opioid overdose ED visits are disproportionately higher amongst Black residents of Durham county than White non-Hispanic residents. [v] and, (though not born as gang-involved individuals) but more vulnerable youth surveyed in Durham reported ACEs a family member going to prison (72.5%); loss of a parent (70.0%) exposure to verbal abuse (57.5%) reported exposure to parental physical abuse, (47.5%) living with substance abuser (62.5%) and though least likely to report sexual abuse/assault (17.5%) were exposed to sexual abuse or assault before age 18 we generated a Resolution View and Sign Here

ENERGY DRINKS 

We provide education on each energy drinks “consumption by youth over 18”, awareness of energy drink harms throughout all ages, sectors and stakeholders, drinking energy drinks combined with alcohol, where and how energy drinks are available; vending machines, advertised etc.