30 August 2024
Writer: CJ Dumaguin
Researcher: CJ Dumaguin
Graphics: Richardson Mojica
Tweet Chat Moderator: Richardson Mojica
Each individual’s contribution counts tremendously but joining forces as a global community produces a potent collective action. One that accelerates our progress toward our common objective of stopping all overdoses, first by preventing them.
Every August 31st of the year, we come together to commemorate the world’s largest annual campaign and effort in ending overdose – the International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) – to remember those who have passed away without stigma, and show support for the bereaved family and friends.
Indeed, nobody should be left behind in our fight to end overdose but how can we provide our support together?
Show Your Support #TogetherWeCan
Through our 2024 theme, “Together We Can”, we are highlighting the strength of coming together and standing in support of those connected to the tragedy of overdose. [1]
For people who use drugs and those who don’t. For heartbroken friends and family members of lost loved ones. For activists who fight for sorely needed policy reform. For healthcare and harm reduction workers. For tireless advocates. Overdose can affect anyone, and we encourage you to remember the tenacity of our community. Lean into the power that we can have when we work together. [1]
IAOD is a stark reminder of the harm that drugs inflict on our society. It is a day to remember those who have fallen victims to overdose as well as those who have come out of the dark hole victorious with the help of loved ones. It also aims to reduce the stigma attached to the issue, most of which is faced by the families of the victims. [2]
Many who are not aware of the factors behind overdose unfairly blame victims. Such an attitude only works to flair the negativities surrounding the topic, suppressing any efforts to raise awareness. August 31 is the day to come out and stand in solidarity in order to reduce future overdose deaths. [2]
Overdose is highly stigmatized, and that’s part of the problem. The stigma surrounding drug use and overdose prevents many individuals from seeking help when they suspect an overdose. Countless deaths may be prevented by destroying this stigma, so people feel safe talking about their struggles and looking for help. [3]
The symbols – silver badges, purple wristbands, and purple lanyards demonstrate support for those who have suffered from an overdose and their loved ones. Moreover, they bring attention to the issues, have the potential to spark a conversation, and are a reminder that every life is valuable. [3]
We can get involved by participating in educational events, candlelight vigils for overdose victims, walks to honor lost loved ones, fundraisers, sharing social media posts by using the hashtags #TogetherWeCan, #IOAD2024, and #EndOverdose, and by accessing the articles in newsletters, emails, and other partner communications to spread right information to the communities and healthcare providers about IOAD.
We Can #EndOverdose
Recognizing an overdose can be difficult. If you are not sure, it is best to treat the situation like an overdose—you could save a life. Signs of an overdose may include small, constricted “pinpoint pupils”, falling asleep or loss of consciousness, slow, weak, or no breathing, choking or gurgling sounds, limp body, cold and/or clammy skin, discolored skin (especially in lips and nails). [4]
All drugs can cause an overdose, including prescription medication prescribed by a doctor. It is important to know the right amount and the right time to take your medication. It is also vital to know what drugs should not be mixed, and to seek help if you feel you are not in control of your drug use. [3]
Whatever the case may be, the resulting consequences are faced by the people who are close to the victims. These effects are felt on socio-economic levels. The prejudice and stigma surrounding the topic make it hard for families and friends to overcome their grief. This also, inevitably, results in less awareness. [2]
What we as a society can do is talk about the overdose more openly, support people in their struggles, and continue to fight. Even if one person is saved at the end of the day, it is a victory to be celebrated. [2]
After all, life is full with moments of joy, grief, and everything in between. Each experience is worthwhile as it allows us to gain a good understanding of the bigger picture to be gradually better in every single day in the most possible ways.
Talk #IOAD2024
Studies have shown that starting in 2005, drug overdose deaths have increased due to ingestion of accidental high doses of prescribed drugs. [2]
The IOAD campaign raises awareness of overdose, which is one of the world’s worst public health crises, and stimulates action and discussion about evidence-based overdose prevention and drug policy. Its goals are to provide an opportunity for people to publicly mourn loved ones, inform all around the world about the risk of drug overdose, provide basic information on the range of support services that are available, and prevent drug-related harms by supporting evidence-based practice. [2]
Through this campaign, we can also reaffirm that when we band together to heal and empower communities, we can save lives and put an end to overdoses.
Session Questions:
- What can be done to encourage those with substance abuse problems to seek help from professionals and other support groups?
- How can we provide support to individuals with substance abuse issues and their families?
- What are the available services in our community for those who are currently experiencing these kinds of challenges and how can we further contribute to ending overdose as a whole?
REFERENCES:
[1] Penington Institute (2024). International Overdose Awareness Day 2024 theme: “Together we can”. Retrieved from https://www.overdoseday.com/campaign-resources/
[2] National Today (2024). International Overdose Awareness Day – August 31, 2024. Retrieved from https://nationaltoday.com/international-overdose-awareness-day/
[3] National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse (2024). International Overdose Awareness Day 2024. Retrieved from https://ncapda.org/international-overdose-awareness-day-2024/
[4] US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2024). International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) Toolkit. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/php/toolkits/ioad.html
