Fatal overdoses are down in Washington County across Ohio

MARIETTA, Ohio (WTAP) – Fatal drug overdoses in Ohio are down for the second year in a row.

According to the state Department of Health, there was a 9 percent decrease in unintentional overdose deaths statewide.

In Washington County, 17 fatal overdoses were reported in 2023, compared to 26 in 2022 — a 35 percent decrease.

Washington County Behavioral Health Council Executive Director George Goddard said there is more work to do to help further reduce overdose deaths.

That work starts with knowing and using resources in the community.

“There are people out there that when they have a loved one going through something, going through addiction, they don’t know where to start, who to talk to, where to go for help,” Goddard said. “And so I think, just for these people, that tonight they’re sitting there, they’re thinking about a loved one and they’re wondering what can they do, the first thing you have to do is call somebody, do something.”

The Washington County Behavioral Health Council connects people with numerous support groups, treatment options and other local resources related to substance abuse and behavioral health. A directory with this information can be found on the board website.

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