This initiative is a project of the DC Department of Behavioral Health, guided by the recommendations of the Opioid Advisory Commission. The Commission, along with the Office of Opioid Abatement, manages the Opioid Abatement Fund, which supports the District's efforts to address the opioid epidemic.

The Commission advised implementing a media campaign to support people and communities affected by substance use disorders (SUD). To bring this vision to life, the “Know Your Path” campaign was developed and executed to raise awareness about the signs of SUD and the resources available to those in need.

Our goals are to:

• Develop prevention messaging that resonates with the residents of DC.
• Educate the public about the dangers of opioids, particularly fentanyl, and their connection to overdose deaths.
• Inform individuals and families about the profound impact of drug addiction.
• Encourage healthy lifestyles and the importance of mental health care.

 

About the DC Department of Behavioral Health

The Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) supports the well-being of children, youth, and adults in the District of Columbia who are facing mental health or substance use challenges. We offer a continuum of care, from prevention and early intervention to treatment, including emergency psychiatric care, outpatient therapy, and residential programs. Our mission is to build and manage a health system that effectively and equitably serves all residents and their families.

About the Office of Opioid Abatement

The Office of Opioid Abatement within the Department of Behavioral Health was established by the Opioid Litigation Proceeds Amendment Act of 2022 to issue, manage, and oversee awards and grants from the Opioid Abatement Fund (Fund; § 7–3213). The Fund receives lump sum or series of payments over time, pursuant to settlement and trust-distribution agreement entered in from cases between the District of Columbia and various pharmaceutical companies (§ 7–3221).

About the Opioid Advisory Commission:

The Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission was established by the Opioid Litigation Proceeds Amendment Act of 2022 District of Columbia Law 24-315 to make recommendations on the use of settlement funds to have the highest impact and to ensure compliance with the agreements.