Know the signs and symptoms of opioid abuse

Today, more than four in 10 Americans know someone who has been addicted to opioid painkillers. But many people might not know that opioid addiction – a type of substance use disorder – is a treatable medical condition. If you or someone you know is experiencing opioid addiction, compassionate treatment is available.

Opioids are one of many tools to treat pain. They work by blocking the brain’s pain signals, but they carry many side effects, including risk for addiction. Health care providers now know that long-term opioid use may not be the best way to treat pain. That’s why Minnesota’s hospitals are committed to treating pain in the most effective, least addictive way – at its source.

Hospitals cannot heal the damage done by the opioid crisis alone. Meaningful progress will require Minnesotans to work together to find sustainable solutions that work for every community.

We can all play a role in fighting the opioid crisis. Start by signing up here to help us save lives. We’ll reach out with simple actions you can take to turn the tide on Minnesota’s opioid crisis.