Introducing Zac Clark: A Journey Beyond Reality TV

Meet Zac Clark, a well-known personality from a hit reality show, whose life narrative extends far beyond the glamour of television. At just 24, Zac faced a daunting challenge when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Following his surgery, he was prescribed opioids for pain relief, which unfortunately led to a rapid descent into dependency, drastically altering the course of his life within mere months.

Struggles and Triumphs

Despite the hidden battle with addiction, Zac persevered to graduate from college, maintain a corporate job, and even get married. It wasn’t until 2011 that he found a pivotal moment that sparked his recovery. Since that turning point, Zac has devoted himself to helping others facing similar hardships. Acknowledging the privilege of his recovery, he transformed his experiences into a mission, founding Release Recovery in New York City. His organization focuses on providing individuals and families the support they need to recover from substance use and mental health challenges through tailored clinical treatment and transitional living options.

The Widespread Issue of Opioid Addiction

Zac is acutely aware that the opioid crisis is a pervasive issue impacting individuals from all walks of life. He stresses the significance of raising awareness about the dangers of accidental opioid poisoning and the critical need for education on how to respond effectively in emergencies.

Understanding the Epidemic

The opioid epidemic stands as a leading cause of unintentional fatalities in the United States, with synthetic opioids like fentanyl being responsible for a staggering number of overdose deaths. Zac warns that these powerful synthetic drugs are becoming increasingly common and can be lethal, even in minuscule amounts. In 2023 alone, over 100,000 lives were lost to drug overdoses, with opioids and their synthetic variants accounting for the majority of these tragedies.

The Role of Naloxone

Dr. Bonnie Milas, a fervent advocate for naloxone, shares a deeply personal connection to the opioid crisis, having tragically lost both of her sons to fentanyl overdoses. She emphasizes the critical importance of having naloxone readily available, as it can be a lifesaver in emergency situations.

Recognizing Overdose Signs

Accidental opioid poisonings can occur in various settings, including homes, public places, and social gatherings. Being able to identify the signs of an opioid overdose, such as extreme lethargy, slow or irregular breathing, and pinpoint pupils, is essential for effective intervention.

Taking Swift Action

In the event of an opioid-related emergency, acting swiftly can make all the difference. Zac offers a helpful mnemonic: “Lay, Spray, Stay,” which serves as a guide for administering naloxone and seeking further assistance. Naloxone nasal spray is widely accessible and can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose within minutes.

Empowering Communities

Zac’s message is profound: everyone should be equipped to take action during an opioid emergency. By keeping naloxone on hand and being knowledgeable about emergency responses, individuals can play a vital role in saving lives. This collaboration between NARCAN® Nasal Spray and Men’s Health aims to foster awareness and empower people to step up in the fight against the opioid epidemic.