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JAMESTOWN – An increase in drug overdoses, and drug overdose deaths, is being reported in Chautauqua County; officials say in part because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Related: Chautauqua County Reports Two Fatal Overdoses In March
Since the beginning of the outbreak, there have been 59 overdoses, including three fatalities.
Officials say last year the average number of overdoses in one month was 19.
In response, the Chautauqua Substance Abuse Response Partnership is urging county residents struggling with addiction to seek treatment, advising them that “Now is the Time.”
“Now really is the time for anyone struggling with an addiction and/or emotional pain to seek help through one of the outpatient behavioral health clinics throughout the county,” said Pat Brinkman, Chautauqua County Community Mental Hygiene Services Director. “The risks and dangers of these days are great, but so too are the options for help.”
Officials say outpatient clinics across the county are working to make access to treatment available for anyone in need, including those for whom travel to a clinic is a barrier.
Telehealth options for medication and for counseling are available through The Resource Center, The Chautauqua Center, UPMC Chautauqua, the Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene, and the TLC Health Network. Contact and other information can be found at CombatAddictionCHQ.com.
The Chautauqua County Crisis Hotline, 1-800-724-0461, is available if you are experiencing a personal crisis or are in emotional distress.
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