Honoring Those Lives Gone From Opioid Overdose

The American Medical Association on August 14th warned that more than forty states have reported increases in opioid related mortality, according to ABC News.com.  The increase is not surprising because of the isolation generated by the Covid-19 virus.

Each year, National Overdose Awareness Day is celebrated around the world.  It is a time to learn about overdoses and how they can be prevented, as well as how to reduce the stigma of substance abuse disorders that prevent drug abusers from seeking treatment.

There will be virtual candlelight remembrances of those we’ve lost to this chronic relapsing disease.  You may see flags at half-mast in honor of those we have tragically lost to opioids.  Wear purple in solidarity on August 31st.

The activities aimed at educating the public are all free and listed on https//www.overdoseday-com/activities-2020/ as well as https:www.youarelinked.org/2020-international-overdose- awareness -day that has tagged over 200 resources to show you more information on IOAD activities and events cross country.

In Ashland City, Tennessee, for example, at 3 p.m.:

• What are opioids?
• The opioid epidemic and how it is impacting Tennesseee
• Harm reduction in your community
• Reducing stigma
• The Addicted Brain and Trauma
• Risk Factors of an opioid overdose
• Recognizing an opioid overdose
• Naloxone (Narcan) that reverses overdoses.  How and when to use it. With 45 minute training, you will get a free Narcan kit.
• Burn out and self-care.

In Arlington, Va. at 7 p.m.:

You will hear stories of recovery and have opportunities to ask questions.  Learn how overdoses have impacting Arlington’s community and how the community has responded. Learn about how to use Naloxone ( Narcan), available in forty states.

These are just a few of the online activities planned.  Spread the news about this important day that not only honors those we’ve lost to opioid overdoses but whose programs will prevent overdoses in the future.