International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is a global event held annually to raise awareness about overdose, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths, and acknowledge the grief felt by families and friends who have lost loved ones. It was initiated in 2001 by Sally J. Finn at The Salvation Army in St Kilda, Melbourne, Australia, as a way to honor those who have died from an overdose and provide a safe space for people to openly mourn without shame or guilt.
Santé Center for Healing in Argyle, Texas, understands the toll addiction takes on individuals, families, and communities. We are committed to reducing the number of Texans lost to overdose by providing professional drug addiction rehab and treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions. Call 866.238.3154 to learn about our programs and services.
International Overdose Awareness Day 2024 FAQ
When Is International Overdose Awareness Day?
International Overdose Awareness Day is observed every year on August 31. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the lives lost and the ongoing battle against substance abuse. September 30 is International Recovery Day, so it fits nicely into the overall international awareness of addiction and recovery.
What Is the Purpose of International Overdose Awareness Day?
The primary purposes of IOAD are:
- To raise awareness about overdose and its impact on communities.
- To reduce the stigma associated with drug-related deaths.
- To highlight the importance of overdose prevention and harm reduction strategies.
- To provide support and compassion to those affected by overdose.
How Can Someone Participate in International Overdose Awareness Day?
Participation in IOAD can take many forms, including:
- Attending local events, such as vigils, marches, or educational workshops.
- Sharing personal stories or experiences related to overdose on social media using the hashtags #OverdoseAware and #EndOverdose.
- Wearing purple, the color associated with overdose awareness, to show support.
- Volunteering with organizations that work on substance abuse prevention and support.
- Distributing information on overdose prevention and harm reduction.
Is There a Theme for 2024’s International Overdose Awareness Day?
Yes, the theme is “Together we can.” This celebrates the power of community and reminds us that we can create real change when we come together as one. Individuals can promote this year’s theme by using hashtags like #TogetherWeCan and #IOAD2024.
How Can I Make a Difference for IOAD as an Individual?
Individuals can make a difference by:
- Educating yourself and others about the signs of overdose and how to respond.
- Advocating for policies that support harm reduction and access to treatment.
- Donating to organizations that provide resources and support for those affected by overdose.
- Sharing factual information and personal stories on social media to break the stigma.
- Engaging with your community through events and volunteer opportunities focused on overdose awareness.
Global Statistics
- Worldwide, in 2019, about 600,000 deaths were attributable to drug use. Close to 80% of these deaths are related to opioids, with about 25% of those deaths caused by opioid overdose1.
- One in every 17 people worldwide had used a drug in 2021, 23 percent more than a decade earlier2.
- An estimated 39.5 million people worldwide were suffering from drug use disorders in 2021, but only 1 in 5 people with drug use disorders received drug treatment2.
By participating in International Overdose Awareness Day, we can contribute to a global effort to save lives and support those impacted by the tragedy of overdose.
Download Useful Resources
One life lost to overdose is too many. During August, let’s show our support by wearing purple to raise awareness and combat the stigma surrounding overdose. Access free valuable resources to ensure the safety of your loved ones here.
Contact Santé Center for Healing Today
At Santé Center for Healing, we understand the cycle of addiction and the toll it takes on individuals, their families, and their communities. We are committed to changing the statistics when it comes to overdose and lives adversely affected by substance use disorders.
We offer comprehensive detox, inpatient and outpatient treatment, and supportive aftercare programs for Texas residents. Contact Santé Center for Healing online or call 866.238.3154 today, and let’s change the numbers on addiction and overdose. #TogetherWeCan!
Footnotes
1World Health Organization – “Opioid Overdose”
2United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime – “World Drug Report 2023”
