While overdose statistics focus on the numbers, it is important to remember the personal stories behind these figures. Each life lost to overdose is a loved one – a family member, a friend, a colleague – whose absence left a void in the lives of those left behind. International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is the largest annual campaign to end overdose and serves as a reminder of these losses and a call to action for all of us.
The campaign also aims to honor the grief of family and friends left behind, providing a safe space where they can remember those who have died without stigma. The theme for 2024 is “Together we can”, which highlights the immense strength and potential of our community when we come together and support each other.
Overdose Awareness Day is a crucial time to reflect on the impact of drug overdoses and to promote lifesaving measures. In 2022, the United States saw 107,941 drug overdose deaths, with synthetic opioids like fentanyl being significant contributors. Although 2023 estimates show a slight decrease to 107,543 deaths, the crisis remains severe. According to the 2024 Drug World Report, opioids remain the most lethal group of drugs, accounting for two thirds of deaths related directly to drugs (mostly overdoses). Amidst this ongoing crisis, it’s essential to highlight tools like naloxone that can make a tangible difference in saving lives.
Naloxone: A Lifesaving Medication
Naloxone is a vital tool for combating opioid overdoses. This medication can quickly reverse the effects of an overdose, restoring normal breathing within minutes. It is available as a nasal spray or injectable solution. Naloxone is safe for all ages and can be administered by bystanders, making it a critical resource in preventing overdose deaths.
Taking Action: How can you help
- Show your support: go to an event and use #IOAD2024 #TogetherWeCan and #EndOverdose in your social media posts to destigmatize and bring awareness.
- Post a tribute: remember someone who has passed away from an overdose on the International Overdose Awareness Day tribute page
- Share your knowledge: learn about overdose, signs to watch for, and what to do during an emergency. Share this knowledge with friends, family, and neighbors.
Get Involved – Invest in Prevention
Make a difference this International Overdose Awareness Day by supporting Drug Free America Foundation, Inc. Your donation helps fund impactful educational campaigns, valuable resources, and essential training for both community members and professionals. Join us in the fight against substance use as we work to keep families together!
#IOAD2024 #TogetherWeCan #EndOverdose
Additional Resources and References
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Xylazine: What You Need to Know
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Spencer, M. R., Garnett, M. F., & Miniño, A. M. (2024). Drug overdose deaths in the United States, 2002–2022 (NCHS Data Brief No. 491). National Center for Health Statistics. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db491.pdf
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). 5 things to know about naloxone. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/reversing-overdose/about-naloxone.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Lifesaving naloxone. CDC. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/stop-overdose/caring/naloxone.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Naloxone fact sheet. CDC. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/stop-overdose/media/pdfs/2024/04/Naloxone-Fact-Sheet-508.pdf
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. (2024). World drug report 2024. UNODC. Retrieved from https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/data-and-analysis/world-drug-report-2024.html
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). (2022). Naloxone DrugFacts. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/naloxone
