A resource that saves lives, Naloxone is available for Northern Michigan University students at all times at the WellBeing Center on campus.
Naloxone, otherwise known as Narcan, is a lifesaving medication for use in case of a drug overdose. Having this tool available on campus can be imperative to having lower rates of overdose-related deaths in Marquette.
Students are welcome to take Narcan from the WellBeing Center, not just if there is not an active emergency, but also to have it on hand in case there is a negative situation. Having a large amount of Narcan made available in the community is part of the WellBeing Center’s goal with this initiative.
“There is certainly a stigma around drug use. People may be reluctant to seek help due to the way it has been treated in the past,” WellBeing Center Medical Office Manager Robin Aho said.
Taking advantage of the help available to students and community members is encouraged by the WellBeing Center, even if it is just meeting with a counselor. Opioid addiction is not uncommon among college students, so it is important to know where you can seek help in case of an overdose.
Narcan is available to organizations for free through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. The Marquette County Health Department also distributes nasal and injectable Narcan at no cost to community members and other local agencies.
Having this available can increase awareness, decrease stigma and increase access to life-saving medication.
“From a healthcare professional’s perspective, awareness and availability of Narcan can save a life. Any life saved is worth the effort to spread awareness about Narcan and availability is key,” WellBeing Center Pharmacist Kristine Whalen said.
Boxes of Narcan are available at the entrance of the WellBeing Center in the form of a nasal spray, with step-by-step directions on the box on how to properly administer the drug.
NMU first offered free Naloxone as part of a Michigan promotion in 2019, and has been offering this resource ever since.
“We appreciate the opportunity to again remind our campus about the resource,” Aho said.
Taking advantage of the resources available on Northern’s campus could not only save the life of a peer or stranger but, also your own.
