Make Overdose Awareness Day Count
- Matthew Koenig
- Aug 31, 2018
- 3 min read
Drug addiction does not discriminate, and overdoses continue to mount for people from all backgrounds, in every part of the world. This message echoes around the world every August 31 as the world recognizes International Overdose Awareness Day. With the global prevalence of overdose deaths, this day is one of remembrance, education and hope.
International Overdose Awareness Day
International Overdose Awareness Day aims to educate the public about drug overdose, remember the lives of people lost to drug overdoses, reduce the stigma that surrounds drug-related deaths and promote actionable prevention efforts. International Overdose Awareness Day is a chance for communities to recognize the prevalence of overdose deaths and encourage change to happen. It’s an opportunity for people to openly grieve the loss of friends or family members and a time for implementing overdose prevention tactics.
The New Reality
Given that North America (including the United States) leads the world in drug-related deaths, International Overdose Awareness Day bears a poignant significance in America.
25 percent of all drug-related deaths occur in America
Every day, 120 people die from a drug overdose
Drug overdoses are the leading cause of death for people under age 50
In 2016, 64,000 people died from a drug overdose
Remember and Take Action
There are countless ways to take action on International Overdose Awareness Day, from wearing a wristband in a show of solidarity to participating in Narcan (naloxone) training to learn how to reverse an overdose. You can participate in a way that is most meaningful to (or comfortable for) you, whether it’s online or in a community-wide event. Several ideas include:
Educate yourself about drug overdose: It’s important to accurately recognize, and react accordingly to, a drug overdose. When someone overdose on opioids, or another drug, they may be unresponsive to stimuli, have a shallow breath, blue lips or fingertips and may make gurgling or snoring sounds. If you see these signs, ensure their airway is clear and call 911 immediately. If the person has overdosed on an opioid (e.g., heroin, Oxycontin, etc.) and you have access to Narcan, give them one dose while on the phone with the emergency operator.
Share helpful overdose information on social media: The International Overdose Awareness Day website offers a variety of free, downloadable resources for anyone to print or share on social media. These include fact sheets, logo assets, posters and infographics, among other resources.
Post a tribute in remembrance of a loved one: Celebrating the life of someone you lost to a drug overdose is a great way to participate in International Overdose Awareness Day. You can write an online tribute to your loved one, post photos of them on social media or share fond memories of them with other close family and friends to honor their memory.
Attend an event in your area: To participate in a commemorative activity in your area, search International Overdose Awareness Day events listed by state. Events range from candlelight vigils and memorial walks to harm reduction seminars and Narcan (naloxone) training.
Host your own event with loved ones: By hosting your own event, even if it’s with only a few people, you can help raise awareness in your community about the importance of overdose prevention and treatment for people who face addiction. You can get ideas for different activities online, register your activity and use the event organizer’s support kit to orchestrate your event.
Keep Narcan nearby: In many regions of the United States that are severely impacted by overdose deaths, civilians may be able to purchase Narcan through a national pharmacy chain, like CVS or Walgreens, without a prescription. Depending on your community’s specific events, public Narcan training may also be available on International Overdose Awareness Day.
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About the Author
Matthew Koenig is a freelance writer and principal of Last Call Marketing which devotes their efforts to Digital Marketing, SEO and Social Engagement. Concentrated in addiction recovery, Mr. Koenig is based out of South Florida. His sober date is June 10, 2013.
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