Here are 3 things you can do to help an addict — from someone who has helped dozens of them

But these days, Wynn is just as likely to receive a hug from those he visits.

Wynn follows up on overdose reports, just as a detective would. Then he visits the addicts.

“It may be the next week, it may be just the day after. And we provide them with the resources they can make contact with, if they’re willing to get treatment. Sometimes people are willing; sometimes they aren’t. It depends on where they’re at in their life,” he said.

MORE: A look at drug overdose deaths by Butler County community

Here are three pieces of advice Wynn has for addicts and those who care about them:

1. Don’t ever give up

“The biggest thing is don’t give up. There is help available. You just have to be willing to reach out to the people and places that are there for you,” he said.

2. Families need help too

“Family, it’s not too late,” Wynn said. “Don’t give up on a family member. There’s help for families, too. They might have an addicted person in their family, but they’re also going through the same things they are. They’re also going through the emotional side of it.”

3. Don’t be an enabler

It’s important not to enable addicts, Wynn said. Tough love is difficult, but it can be a life-saver, he said. “You can’t keep enabling the person. At some point, you’ve got to tell them, ‘I can’t keep providing things for you. You have to move on your own two feet.’”

Hamilton residents can also reach Wynn at 513-868-5811, ext. 1172.