Meriden Health Talk

Stay Safe this Holiday Season!

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, Victoria George from Rushford in Meriden is back to talk to you about certain risks that alcohol and drugs pose to young people and our community, particularly during the holiday season.
For many families, the holidays are a time for travel, celebration, and connection. Yet on the nation’s roadways, this season of joy often comes with a troubling rise in drunk driving crashes.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drunk driving remains one of the leading causes of fatal crashes in the United States. Every year, thousands of lives are lost because someone decided to drive after drinking, and as more people attend gatherings and spend time on the road, alcohol-related incidents become far more common. Driving is a complex task, so any impairment affects reaction time, coordination, judgment, and perception—putting drivers, passengers, and communities at risk. But the injuries, disabilities, and deaths associated with impaired driving are preventable. Taking personal responsibility for a safe ride saves lives.
If you are over the age of 21, and you have used any substance that may impair your ability to drive, do not get behind the wheel. Plan a sober ride in advance and identify someone who will help keep you accountable. If impaired, use a rideshare, taxi, public transportation, or call a sober friend. If you are hosting, intervene if someone is about to drive impaired—help them get home safely.
For persons under the age of 21, the developing brain, especially the prefrontal cortex (decision-making), is super vulnerable. Alcohol and drug consumption during these years can impair critical growth, leading to a whole host of long-term issues, like addiction, anxiety, depression, and problems with memory and thinking and judgment; also low-self-esteem, poor school performance, and greater risk of threats to physical health and safety, like drinking and driving.
The holidays undoubtably mean more family parties, gatherings with drinks, and traditions that normalize alcohol, even if unintentionally. Too often we hear social hosts, or family members or parents say, "It's just a sip," or “ "It's safe when its at home." In truth, no amount of alcohol or cannabis is safe for a developing brain. Myths about ‘safe in small amounts’ or ‘safe under supervision’ are risky. They send mixed messages and often leave young people unprepared for real-world peer pressure and settings that lack safe supervision. So how can young people handle being offered drinks by family or friends, or the general pressure to drink this holiday season?
Here are some tips
Have a plan.
Communicate.
Practice self-care.
Stay positive and have Fun. 
Finally, to all my parents out there, talk openly to your kids. Have hard honest conversations about underage drinking and offer support. Listen to their thoughts and worries about peer pressure – and provide positive strengths-based explanations and alternatives. Lead by example. Set clear boundaries and expectations, and remember to always lock up alcohol and practice safe storage. 
always lock up alcohol and practice safe storage. Thank you so much for taking the time to listen to this episode of Meriden Health Talk and remember, you are not alone. Help is available. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress. 9-8-8 can also provide prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones. For help, text or call 988, or chat with 988 professionals on their website at www.988lifeline.org/chat. Services area available in English and Spanish. 
 

What is Naloxone and Why Is It Important?

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, we want to talk about Naloxone, also known as Narcan, and why it is important.
Naloxone, also known as Narcan™, is a lifesaving opioid overdose reversal medication. It is a short acting medication that can reverse a lethal dosage of opioids by temporarily blocking the effects of the drug. Naloxone restores someone's ability to breath allowing time to access medical attention.
Naloxone is easy to use and is available over-the-counter as a nasal spray. It can be administered to anyone who is experiencing an opioid overdose and only works if there are opioids in the person’s system, which means it’s harmless if administered to an individual who is not overdosing. Signs of an overdose include blue or gray lips or fingertips, pale, cold or clammy skin, if the person is unresponsive or not breathing, and pinpoint pupil. 
Also you should know that if you administer Naloxone or provide CPR you are protected under the Good Samaritan Law in Connecticut. 
Having Naloxone available is just another tool in your toolbox to keep our community healthy and safe. Saving a life is never “enabling” someone’s addiction. Naloxone isn’t about promoting substance use—it’s about giving people a second chance at life. Everyone deserves the opportunity to recover, and the first step in recovery is survival.
We offer community Naloxone trainings once a month, the next training will be Friday, January 9, 2026 from 9:00 – 10:00am at 165 Miller Street. Pop-up trainings will also be held in partnership with Meriden Public Library, the next one is Tuesday, January 20, 2026 from 10:30 – 11:30am at 105 Miller Street. Everyone that attends received a free Naloxone kit and other resources. Trainings are scheduled throughout 2026; if you would like to attend a training, schedule a training for your business or organization, or have questions about Naloxone, please contact our Public Health Educator at (203) 630-4288. Walk-ins are always welcome at our trainings.
One more thing - there is great local resource available for those struggling with substance use. The Meriden Opioid Referral for Recovery program, also known as MORR, is designed to meet individuals wherever they are at in their recovery journey and connect them to programs and services that will best fit their individual needs. You can call MORR staff directly at (203) 630-5373. Visit www.meridenhealth.com to more local resources. 

Mental Health During The Holiday Season

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, we are happy to welcome Victoria George from Rushford/the Meriden Healthy Youth Coalition to talk to us about mental health during the holiday season. 
The holidays are often portrayed as a time of joy, family gatherings, and celebrations, but for many of us, they can bring a lot of stress, anxiety, and even sadness.
But here’s the thing: It’s okay to not feel okay during the holidays. There’s no rule that says you have to feel “merry” 100% of the time. In fact, recognizing and acknowledging your emotions is the first step toward managing them.
The holidays can bring up a wide range of emotions. For some, it’s a time of great joy – a chance to connect with loved ones, create new memories, and celebrate traditions. But for others, the holidays can feel like a reminder of loss, loneliness, or past trauma.
Let’s talk about some practical strategies for maintaining your mental health and finding balance during this time.
Practice Self-Care - This one’s huge. Between all the shopping and preparing, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Schedule time for things that recharge you – whether it’s a hot bath, reading a book, taking a walk, or just having a quiet cup of tea. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary for your mental health.
Talk About Your Feelings - If you’re feeling down or anxious, reach out to someone you trust. Talking about what’s on your mind can help relieve stress and make you feel less isolated. Don’t be afraid to share your struggles – whether it’s with a close friend, family member, or therapist.
Stay Active - Exercise can be a powerful mood booster. Even if it’s just a short walk outside, getting moving helps release endorphins, which can improve your mood and reduce stress. Plus, it’s a great way to get some fresh air and clear your mind.
Seek Professional Help If Needed - If you find that your mental health is becoming overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out to a therapist or counselor. Sometimes, professional support can help you process emotions and provide strategies for coping during difficult times.
Remember, you are not alone. Help is available.
The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress. 9-8-8 can also provide prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.
For help, text or call 988, or chat with 988 professionals on their website at www.988lifeline.org/chat. Services area available in English and Spanish.

Toy Safety During the Holiday Season

In this episode of, Meriden Health Talk, we are talking about toy safety as December is National Safe Toys and Gifts Month! 
Here are some considerations as you are out shopping for that perfect gift:
A lot of new and interesting items come to the home during the holiday season and small children explore their world by putting things in their mouths. A good rule of thumb is that if an item is small enough for your child to put in their mouths, then it’s a potential choking hazard. You can check by passing an item through a toilet paper roll; if it fits through the tube, then it is a choking hazard. Keep potential hazards out of the reach of small children.
Musical holiday cards, remote controls, toys, flameless candles, cameras and other gadgets may contain button batteries. These small batteries can lodge in the esophagus if swallowed. Severe burns can result if saliva triggers an electric current causing a chemical reaction. If your child swallows a button battery, call 911 and go to the emergency room immediately. Check the toys you are gifting and those currently in your home to make sure battery compartments are secured.
Always check the age recommendation on the toy packaging.
Select toys without sharp edges or points to prevent cuts and injuries.
Pair gifts like bicycles or skateboards with appropriate safety gear such as helmets and knee and elbow pads).
If you are gifting Art Supplies: Look for non-toxic, washable markers or paints.   
This holiday season, let’s make thoughtful choices to ensure our gifts bring joy and safety. By prioritizing quality, age-appropriateness, and safety, we can protect our loved ones and create lasting holiday memories. Questions on toy safety? Please visit the Safe Kids Worldwide website at www.safekids.org. 

Meriden Early Start: Meet Our Parent Ambassadors!

In this episode of, Meriden Health Talk, we are hearing from our two Parent Ambassadors from the Meriden Early Start Program! 
Meriden Early Start is the new state-funded early care and education program that launched in July 2025. It combines 3 existing programs- child daycare contracts, School Readiness Grants, and State Head Start Supplement Grants- into 1 new program. 
Our Parent Ambassadors' role is to serve as advocates for families of young children. They help get parents connected with local early childhood programs and services. They aim to help parents and caregivers feel empowered in their child’s education and development. As Parent Ambassadors they play an important role in making sure parent voices are heard, valued and included in the community.
Be on the lookout for an opportunity to join their Meriden Family Voices Committee - This will be a welcoming space where parents, caregivers and families can come together to share experiences, raise concerns, and bring ideas that will strengthen child care and support for families.
To learn more about the Meriden Early Start Program please visit the website: Early Start (formerly School Readiness) | City of Meriden, CT

Thanksgiving Food Safety

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, our Environmental Health staff is offering guidance on how to safely prepare and handle food to avoid foodborne illness this Thanksgiving!
One very important thing to remember is handwashing. Hands should be thoroughly washed with soap and warm water before handling food and especially after handling raw meat.
Raw meat, poultry and seafood should be kept separate from other foods to prevent cross-contamination.
Another important thing to remember is not to thaw turkey on the counter. It should be thawed in the refrigerator at 41°F or less or thawed in the sink completely submerged under running water at 70°F or less. Refer to the instructions located on the outside of the turkey package.
As far as cooking the turkey, use a food thermometer and ensure that all parts of the turkey are cooked to a minimum of 165°F. If stuffing the turkey, the stuffing must also be cooked to a minimum of 165°F.
Refrigerate any leftovers as soon as possible and reheat them to at least 165°F.
Leftovers, such as turkey, stuffing and cooked vegetables should not be consumed after 7 days from the day they were prepared.
We hope everyone has a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving!

Meriden Early Start

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, Rhonda Knight, our Early Childhood Coordinator is talking about the Meriden Early Start program!
Meriden Early Start is a state-funded early childhood education program that helps young children build strong foundations for lifelong learning. Imagine a classroom filled with discovery—toddlers stacking blocks, preschoolers exploring letters through play, and infants reaching milestones with gentle guidance.
There are so many benefits to being part of Meriden Early Start.First, affordability—we use a sliding fee scale based on income and family size, so high-quality early education is within reach for more families.Second, quality—our programs are play-based and developmentally appropriate, helping children learn through hands-on exploration.Our teachers are trained in early childhood education and truly care about meeting each child’s individual needs.And third, school readiness—Early Start helps children develop confidence, curiosity, and social skills so they’re not just ready for kindergarten, they’re ready to succeed.
 
If you’re a Meriden parent with a child under five, visit meridenct.gov/school-readiness to explore the list of programs, check for openings, and schedule a tour. For general questions, you can contact me, Rhonda Knight, the Early Childhood Coordinator for Meriden.
 

Environmental Health - Septic Systems

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, we are talking about septic systems! Do you know if your home is on a septic system or city sewer? Septic systems are underground wastewater treatment structures on your property that treat wastewater from household plumbing produced by bathrooms, showers, kitchen drains and laundry. 
If you have questions regarding your septic system, you can contact our Environmental Health Office at (203) 630-4226. For more general information regarding septic system, please visit: https://shorturl.at/W6OxE

Meriden Opioid Referral for Recovery (MORR) Program

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, we connected with Rushford, one of our community partners, to talk about our Meriden Opioid Referral for Recovery program, known as MORR. Thank you to Rushford for recording this podcast episode.
People CAN and DO recover, and we are here to help. The Meriden Opioid Referral for Recovery program, known as MORR, is designed to meet individuals wherever they are at in their recovery journey and connect them to programs and services that will best fit their individual needs. Rushford offers a full continuum of programs and treatment options that will help you start and maintain recovery. In addition to residential and outpatient programs and case management, Rushford also has trained Peer Recovery Support Specialists that provide a unique level of support as they have lived-experience with substance use or mental health challenges. Rushford is proud to partner with the Meriden Department of Health and Human Services and our first responders, including Meriden's police and fire departments, and Hunter’s Ambulance on the MORR program.
If you or someone you know needs help, please call Rushford’s main line (877) 577-3233. You can call MORR staff directly at (475) 331-3341. If you would like to review information about MORR and other life-saving overdose prevention and response services, please visit www.meridenhealth.com.

National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week Part 2

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, we are back to talk more about lead and some things you want to look for if you question whether you or your child would be exposed to lead.  
Housing – Any home that was built prior to 1978 has the potential to have lead.  If the house was built before 1950, it is almost certain to have lead.  We would look for any painted surface that appears to have multiple layers of paint, and if the paint appears to be chipped or cracked in any way. Old wooden windows, old doors, old stairs are common locations where lead can be found.
Jobs – Certain jobs would expose people to lead or lead dust.  Professions like painters, remodelers, contractors, construction worker would increase the chance of lead exposure.
Hobbies – Hobbies like pottery & ceramics, stained glass, fishing, or hobbies involving firearms all have the risk of exposing someone to lead.
Cosmetics – Certain cosmetics, including some used for ceremonial or religious purposes have been found to contain lead.
Home remedies and medications – Certain ethnic-specific traditions and ceremonies have had products used that contain lead.
Toys – There are times that the paint that has been used on the toy could possibly contain lead.  Please check the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission website (https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls) for the most recent recalls.   
 
Staff for the Meriden Environmental Health Department has been trained to know what to look for when inspecting homes.  When applicable, we can test items to see if they come up positive for lead, or collect samples of items for analysis. If you need more information, please call the Environmental Health Department at 203-630-4226, and ask to speak to someone about lead.