August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day, an annual worldwide campaign dedicated to ending overdose, remembering those who have died, and acknowledging the grief of the family and friends left behind.
The Centers for Disease Control documented an estimated 107,622 drug overdose deaths in the United States during 2021, a near 15% increase from 2020.
At Soul Surgery Rehab, we believe that raising awareness and acknowledging the harsh truth of addiction is essential to moving towards a brighter future, free from the pains of overdose.
You can take part in and offer your support on International Overdose Awareness Day in multiple ways, including:
Getting Involved
Whether you or a loved one has gone through addiction or you share sympathy for those who have had this heartbreaking experience, your involvement is more than welcome!
Host or attend an event to learn more about overdose prevention and remember those who have lost their lives to this battle.
Sharing Campaign Resources
Through word of mouth and social media, you can share campaign material with those in your community. Spread awareness about the nature of overdose, available help for those at risk, and overdose prevention.
Resource materials include t-shirt designs, campaign logos, guides, social media tiles, posters, translations, fact sheets, and more.
Posting a Tribute
Post an honoring tribute to loved ones who lost their lives to overdose, allowing you to raise awareness of the dangers of overdose and how it impacts both the individual’s life and their loved ones.
You’ll also have the option of providing a photo to have your tribute posted to The Overdose Tribute Instagram page.
Donating
Consider donating to reputable organizations dedicated to spreading the message of and preventing overdose. These organizations provide resources and support to individuals and families impacted by addiction and overdose. They also hold campaigns for community education and raising awareness.
We’re in this Together, and Together We Can Bring Awareness to the Reality of Overdose
Remember - overdose is preventable, and your involvement can help save lives. Please visit the Overdose Day website to learn more about International Overdose Awareness Day and to read written tributes to lost loved ones from others also impacted by the effects of overdose.
