ODH releases overdose death data

In the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Seneca, Sandusky and Wyandot Counties' district, a total of 29 individuals died by unintentional drug overdose in 2019. These numbers come from the Calendar Year 2019 Overdose Death Report released last week by the Ohio Department of Health. The 2019 report is the most recent data provided by the Ohio Department of Health. Overall, unintentional drug overdose deaths declined compared with 2018. These statistics refer to the county of residence based on the decedent's residence address at the time of death, and not where the death occurred. It is projected that Calendar Year 2020 numbers will be much higher than 2019 in the board's district. The board is working on a full report that will be released in the coming weeks, which will include local demographic information. Across Ohio from 2018 to 2019, black, non-Hispanic males had the largest increase in overdose death rates. Among black, non-Hispanic males, 55 to 64-year-olds had the highest rate. Fentanyl was involved in 76.2% of all unintentional drug overdose deaths in Ohio. In 2019, deaths involving psychostimulants surpassed those involving heroin. "Overdose and suicide deaths are preventable, and behind every single death is a grieving family," said Mental Health and Recovery Services Board President Mircea Handru. "There are many people and agencies in our communities fighting daily to stop these numbers from claiming even more." "Please reach out to our office for help by calling (419) 448-0640," he said.