International Overdose Awareness Day, August 31, 2024
International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is a global event dedicated to ending overdose, honoring those lost, and supporting the grieving families and friends left behind. This day stands as the world’s largest annual campaign focused on overdose awareness, prevention, and action.
What is International Overdose Awareness Day?
- Raising Awareness: IOAD highlights the severity of the overdose crisis, one of the most pressing public health issues today. It aims to spark meaningful discussions and actions regarding effective overdose prevention and drug policy reform.
- Acknowledging Grief: This day also recognizes the deep sorrow experienced by families and friends who have lost loved ones to overdose or who have been affected by it.
- Spreading the Message: IOAD communicates the tragic reality of drug overdose deaths and emphasizes that these tragedies are preventable.
This Year’s Theme: “Together We Can”
The theme for this year is “Together We Can,” emphasizing the strength and impact of community solidarity. By standing united, we can drive change and support those affected by substance use.
Remembering and Honoring Those We Have Lost
International Overdose Awareness Day is a powerful opportunity to remember and honor those who have died from overdose. This day is dedicated to acknowledging the lives lost and celebrating the memories of individuals whose stories and struggles highlight the urgent need for change. We encourage everyone to take a moment to reflect on the lives impacted by this crisis, share stories of those we have lost, and participate in activities that commemorate their lives.
Communities across the globe will hold vigils, memorial walks, and other events to pay tribute to those who have passed. These acts of remembrance serve as a reminder of the human cost of the overdose epidemic and reinforce our collective commitment to preventing future tragedies. By coming together to honor the deceased, we also provide support and solace to the bereaved, ensuring that their loved ones are remembered with dignity and respect.
Local Commemoration of International Overdose Awareness Day
On August 31, join us for the “Hands Across the Bridge” event in Kennewick, WA, at 607 East Columbia Drive. From 1:00-8:00 pm, participate in a day of remembrance and hope with guest speakers and raffles. At 7:00 pm, we will walk across the Cable Bridge to honor those lost and show our support.
Addressing Stigma and Promoting Recovery
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), recovery involves a transformative process where individuals enhance their health and achieve their fullest potential. Recovery is rooted in hope, the belief that overcoming these challenges is possible. It’s a journey that doesn’t follow a straight path—success isn’t always directly tied to effort. Harm reduction practices are essential in lessening the negative effects of substance use. Reducing harm can look like not using alone, safely storing all drugs, and carrying naloxone if you believe you may encounter someone experiencing an overdose. By working together, we use the power of connection to improve lives.
How to Respond to an Overdose
If you witness an overdose, follow these steps:
- Identify the Signs:
- The person is unresponsive; try gently shaking their shoulders.
- Breathing is slow or absent.
- Skin color is pale, blue, or ashy.
- Fingernail color is changing.
- Call 911 Immediately.
- Administer Naloxone (Narcan): If available, use naloxone and provide rescue breaths or support the airway.
- Turn the Person on Their Side: This helps keep the airway clear.
- Stay with Them: Remain with the person until emergency services arrive.
If they wake up:
- Introduce yourself and explain what happened.
- Describe the actions you took.
- Encourage deep breathing, offer water, and provide comfort.
- Suggest they follow the advice of EMS.
Thanking Our First Responders
On International Overdose Awareness Day, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to first responders who are on the front lines of this crisis. Your dedication, bravery, and swift action save lives every day. Whether it's administering life-saving interventions, providing critical support, or offering comfort during the most challenging moments, your commitment to our community is truly commendable. Thank you for your relentless efforts and for being a beacon of hope and safety in times of need.
Prevention Efforts
- Safe Medication Return: Dispose of unwanted medications safely through the Washington State Department of Health's program. Find a drop-off location near you: Safe Medication Return.
- Community Prevention and Wellness Initiatives (CPWI): Our local coalitions and school-based programs work to prevent underage drinking and substance use. These include Key Connection (Kennewick), Pasco Prevention Network (Pasco), Coalition for a Healthy Benton City (Kiona Benton), and Prosser Thrive (Prosser). Volunteering opportunities are available in these programs.
Overdose Prevention and Response at BFHD
The Benton-Franklin Health District (BFHD) is dedicated to a holistic approach to overdose prevention. We collaborate with community partners to enhance systems, policies, and social environments, aiming to build resilience and support for individuals affected by substance use.
For more information, visit our website.
Together, we can make a difference and foster a safer, more supportive community for everyone.
