International Overdose Awareness Day

Since 2021, overdose rates have skyrocketed. An estimated 100,306 drug overdose deaths occurred in the calendar year. (1) In 2020, more than 93,000 reported overdoses in America. These numbers show that people are turning to prescription and illicit drugs to cope with the hardships of life and mental illness. International Overdose Awareness Day takes place on August 31st of each year to illuminate the overwhelming number of deaths caused by drug abuse.

What Is Overdose Awareness Day?

Overdose Awareness Day is celebrated globally to unite all cultures to participate and donate to an annual campaign supporting the end of overdose. Whether intentional or not, too many people die from drugs due to mental illness or substance use disorder. National Overdose Awareness Day acknowledges the ones who passed on and encourages their families to seek professional care and support for the trauma they endured.

Sally J. Finn initiated the program in Austria in 2001. She managed a unique program at the Salvation Army Crisis Center in St. Kilda, Victoria. In support, a silver badge or purple wristband symbolizes overdose and support for those struggling and those who have lost loved ones to substance abuse.

How to Show Support

Although August 31st is the official awareness day, August is overdose awareness month. There are numerous ways to show support. Here are some ways you can be proactive in your community:

Partner up with a local organization to spread education
Create a safe space and invite people to share their experiences
Host an event at a community center, welcoming overdose survivors
Visit a neighbor or somebody you know who lost a loved one to an overdose
Share on social media to spread education and awareness about drug abuse
Donate to the National Safety Council or other organizations to prevent opioid overdoses

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use disorder or mental health concerns, we suggest seeking treatment as soon as possible. Feeling supported during these difficulties is essential, especially when the potential outcomes are deadly. Sober support groups and therapeutic methods such as EMDR therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy are great options to begin a journey to recovery.

Overdose Prevention at Sunshine Care Centers

At Sunshine Care Centers, we are dedicated to providing patients with the resources they need to recover. From music therapy to cognitive-behavioral and trauma therapy, we have a program to fit your needs. If you or a loved one is ready to tackle mental health concerns or substance use disorder, Sunshine Care Centers has your back.

Sunshine Care Centers has a suite of specialists with over 30 years of experience in drug and alcohol rehabilitation to assist you on the road to recovery. Whether in North Texas or Southern California, Sunshine Care Centers offers the highest level of care available. We pride ourselves on our clean, compassionate, and secure environment. We use evidence-based addiction treatment with flexible programs that cater to your needs.

Don’t wait to receive the help you deserve.

Speak to a specialist at Sunshine Care Centers by calling 883-597-CARE or message us today!