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1. What is an Opioid?

Opioids are drugs that act on the nervous system to relieve pain. For additional information, please visit Opioid Solutions RVA.

2. What are the signs and symptoms of opioid misuse?

Symptoms of misuse include 

• a strong desire to use opioids
• increased tolerance to opioids
• failure to fulfill obligations
• trouble reducing use
• withdrawal syndrome with discontinuation 

Opioid withdrawal symptoms may include 

• nausea
• muscle aches
• diarrhea
• trouble sleeping
• anxiety
• agitation

3. How can I tell if my child may be using opioids?

Parents should look for changes in their child’s personality and behavior at school and home. Their child also may 

• start to associate with a different group of friends
• no longer care about his or her appearance 
• stop tending to personal hygiene
• be noticeably less hungry 
• have difficulty sleeping
• have eyes that always appear red or bloodshot

In addition, items may begin to suddenly disappear from the medicine cabinet.

For more information, please visit 'What if I suspect my child is using'.

4. How can I get treatment for myself or a loved one?

The Department of Mental Health Support Services (MHSS) is the provider of mental health, developmental disabilities and substance use disorder services for children and adults in Chesterfield County.

Please visit Same Day Access for additional information.

5. How can I dispose of unneeded medication?

Please visit the Drug Drop-off Kiosk at the Chesterfield County Police Department, located at 10001 Iron Bridge Road. You can also contact your local CVS and Walgreen’s Pharmacy.  

For more information visit Safe Disposal.

6. How can I report suspected drug activity in my neighborhood?

For emergencies dial 911. For non-emergencies, including concern about potential criminal activity call the Chesterfield County Police Department at 804-748-1251.

7. How can I get involved in addressing the opioid epidemic?

Local grassroots efforts are vital to changing attitudes, educating families and effectively changing behavior around opioids. Your voice can make a difference. 

Please visit S.A.F.E. to find out how you can become involved.