Overdose Awareness and Prevention Program
(OAPP)

Since 2019, Injury Prevention Services (IPS) in Public Health has received funding from Riverside University Health System – Behavioral Health to assist school districts in the development of an Overdose Awareness and Prevention Program (OAPP).

Program Goals

• Increase community awareness of alternatives to using substances for handling life stress among at-risk youth and understanding the risks associated with both prescription and illicit opioid use.
• Promote positive youth development by empowering students to serve as resources for their peers in accessing substance use prevention and treatment services.
• Decrease the initiation of opioid use and misuse in Riverside County and reduce overdose fatalities among teens and young adults.

Program Overview

Student Component

• High Schools – Provide educational support to students focused on developing initiatives that promote healthy coping strategies alternative to substance use. The program emphasizes raising awareness about the risks associated with opioids and encourages students to advocate for their peers' mental health and well-being.
• Middle Schools - Train a select group of students on each campus to lead and establish an Overdose Prevention program tailored to their school. This program is designed to equip youth with skills to address substance-related issues and promote wellness among their peers. The initiative aims to provide critical information about healthy alternatives to substance use and resources available for youth in need.

Staff and Parent Development

• The following training sessions provide essential guidance on addressing substance use and overdose concerns with both students and parents. Participants will learn to identify the dangers associated with prescription opioids, recognize the signs of an opioid overdose, and effectively communicate with youth about the risks related to opioid use. Interpretation and translation services are available.
  • Overdose Prevention: Addressing Substance Use in Our Communities

Welcome