Opioid Prevention Awareness on Campus

By Mylee Santos

Health Services has never had to use Narcan to reverse a drug overdose, but officials aren’t taking any chances for the future.

Health Services, the Wellness Office, and the Wellness Coalition have coordinated with the SAFE Coalition to offer the Stonehill community trainings on how to recognize signs of an overdose and how to administer Narcan.

Narcan is a safe, easy to use, medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an overdose, while waiting for emergency medical services to respond. 

“We believe Narcan availability and education are important ways to ensure our community is prepared to respond in an emergency,” said Maria Sullivan, director of Counseling Services. 

Trainings on how to recognize signs of an overdose and how to administer Narcan will take place on October 7 at 10 a.m., October 21, at 3 p.m., and November 18, at 4 p.m., lasting about 30 to 40 minutes.

“Preparedness saves lives,” said Sullivan.

Students and faculty who attend the Narcan trainings will receive a Narcan kit. In emergency situations, Narcan can be accessed in Automated External Defibrillator (AED) cabinets around campus. Campus Police also carry Narcan and AEDs in their vehicles.

Narcan access points are located all around campus including Health Services, May Hall, Sally Blair Ames Sports Complex, Merkert Gymnasium, Police Department and Patrol Vehicles, Roche Commons Dining Hall, and the Hill.

The AED cabinets across campus include Narcan nasal spray, quick-use instructions on how to use Narcan, and a QR code linking to an instructional video.

“Wellness programs are designed to increase awareness, reduce stigma, promote early intervention and ensure students know where to seek help when needed,” said Sullivan.

Health Services and Counseling Services can offer confidential support to any students who are struggling with substance abuse.

According to a study done by the National Association of Student Personal Administrators, there is an increase in availability of Narcan but, most institutions of higher education are not fully prepared to effectively intervene in opioid emergencies. 

In 2025, institutions were encouraged by the American College Health Association and the Association of College & University Housing Officers-International, to expand access to overdose reversal medications, education and prevention efforts.

Sullivan said that students are encouraged to send direct questions to Health Services, Counseling Services, or the Wellness Office if in possession of any substances from unknown sources and never to take medication that is not prescribed to you.

In case of any emergency regarding an overdose on campus call, 508-565-5555. If off campus, call 911. 

To register for the training dates, email wellness@stonehill.edu.