By Dave Thompson

BISMARCK, N.D. (Prairie Public Radio) – The North Dakota Department of Human Services says drug related overdoses claimed 118 lives in 2020.

That’s up from 79 in 2019.

The Department says the COVID-19 pandemic has been impacting behavioral health. And Behavioral Health Division director Pamela Sagness says it has been especially difficult for those struggling with an opioid use disorder.

Sagness says it is key to get information out that overdose can be prevented.

Naloxone is available from local public health units and pharmacies, or though the Department’s Division of Behavioral Services.