Opioid and Drug Dependence on University Campuses

The prevalence of opioid use disorder and overdose is continually growing on college campuses. Unfortunately, most university staff are not properly equipped to handle this reality. This can lead to devastating impacts to university students, staff, and families. Reality is, staff members need to be equipped to help and manage students in life threatening situations related to opioid use. This proposal aims to directly tackle this issue through a mandated drug overdose response procedure certification. This would be a requirement for university resident assistants, RAs, and security staff. This would be a requirement for public universities and staff would take the course during the onboarding process with a yearly review course. A solution like this can save many lives and allow for a safer campus that will further academic and personal success. The proposal will require funding for curriculum building, reimbursement for staff that undergo the training, and purchase of naloxone kits.