The number of overdose deaths is rising in St. Joseph County as COVID-19 takes toll on mental health.

Overdose deaths in the county dropped to just over 60 in 2018, and dropped to 35, last year.

But already, this year, St. Joseph County reports nearly 50 deaths.

Local health leaders tell The South Bend Tribune, thanks to social distancing and other restrictions, community mental health services have suffered.

To help, the 525 Foundation has planned several events as part Substance Abuse Prevention Month throughout October. Many events are virtual, but a socially-distanced trick-or-treat event called “Say Boo To Drugs” is taking later this month at Howard Park.