Welcome…
to our drug user health page dedicated to connecting people who use drugs with valuable resources to help them find support and stay healthy. We understand that navigating the challenges associated with drug use are complex, and our goal is to provide a safe and informative space where you can find support, connect with others who share similar experiences, and access essential resources to promote your well-being. If you are familiar with any of the resources or have feedback, please email a member of our team. We value your feedback and will use it to provide more relevant resources and support.
Safer Drug Use
Drug User Unions
Networking
Filing a Civil Rights Complaint
For anyone who themselves were or knows someone who was on Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) prior to incarceration and had those medications stopped while incarcerated, there is an option to file a report for a civil rights violation with the Department of Justice.
Important Considerations:
Generally, the refusal to prescribe MOUD to a person who has a diagnosis of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is in violation of the American Disabilities Act (ADA) which would mean a civil rights violation. This is “[u]nless the individual is currently engaged in illegal drug use.” If you were not using anything illegal at the time of arrest or just before arrest, this form is more likely to be successful.
It’s best that the person who experienced the violation submits the form. In the case of someone’s passing, family may be the next best option, if possible.
The person who files should be prepared to testify if a case is pursued.
State or Local Government Discrimination
Regarding discrimination from state or local government programs, services, or activities that provide health care and social services, complaints are filed with the Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights (HHS OCR).
Never Use Alone
Call 877-696-1996 if you are using alone. The operators are harm reductionists who stay on the line while you use your substance(s). In the case you become unresponsive, they will call emergency medical services (EMS). They report the concern as an unresponsive person so law enforcement is less likely to show up. Follow this link to the NUA FAQ page.
Brave is an app for people who use drugs to get support for an overdose on their terms. You can provide Brave operators with the contact information for a trusted individual or they can call EMS. Click on the logo above to visit the Brave website and download the app.
Mandy’s Line
From the NUA website: “Mandy's line is a connection line. People who use drugs can call when they just need to talk to someone that "get's it". When you call, you'll be connected to a nonjudgmental operator with lived experience in substance use disorders, and/or mental health training. All calls are confidential, and what you talk about is kept between you and the operator you speak with!”
